Joe Thomas Mays, of Maysville, Oklahoma, was born April 1, 1947 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, to Thomas G. Mays and Jo Frances (Miller) Mays. He passed from this life at the age of 74 years on Sunday, August 15, 2021, in his home surrounded by his family.
Joe was a lifetime resident of Maysville, which was named after his forefathers. He attended Kemper Military College in Boonville, Missouri, and received his Associate Degree from Southeastern State College in Durant, Oklahoma. Joe married Betty Timmons on May 23, 1986, in Oklahoma City. He owned and operated Joe’s Pipeline Patrol, LLC, flying for various oil companies. In addition to being a pilot, Joe enjoyed being a farmer/rancher in the Maysville area.
Joe loved his family, golfing, fishing, and 4-wheeler trips to Colorado. Another passion of his was cars, the faster the better. As a youth growing up, the family owned a Go Kart track in Maysville where Joe actively raced. With his grandfather, S.J. Mays, Joe made several trips to see the Indy 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. His passion for speed was later demonstrated through his multiple wins in stock car racing. Joe possessed a love for music and playing the drums most recently at the Pauls Valley Opry. He was a beloved member of the community who will be greatly missed.
Survivors include his wife, Betty; daughter, Lisa Wagner and husband, Barry, of Edmond, Oklahoma; brother, J Carroll Mays and wife, Carrie, of London, England; grandchildren, Tyler Wagner and Madison Wagner. Joe is also survived by his wonderful dog, Agnes.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Jo Frances Mays.
Funeral services were held Thursday, August 19, 2021, at Winans Funeral Home Chapel in Maysville, Oklahoma, with Bro. Danny Gamble officiating. Burial followed in the Maysville Cemetery under the direction of John W. Williams of Winans Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.winansfuneralhome.com.
