Joseph Michael May, 86, passed away April 4, 2019 surrounded by family members. He was born on September 24, 1932 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Although he was born in South Dakota and moved frequently throughout his youth, Joe May was a proud community member of Beeville, TX, El Paso, TX, Williamsburg, KS, and Overland Park, KS. Joe was known for his service and generosity in these communities. He served as an Army Instructor during the Korean Conflict. He was a giving community volunteer and proud veteran advocate. Joe was an Insurance Professional for 50 years in Kansas City.
He is preceded in death by his parents James A. May and Frances Temple May, and his siblings Jim, John, Mary Ann, Frances, Thomas May, and his first wife Patsy May.
He is survived by his loving wife Barbara May, his brother Jerome May and his eleven children Mike May, Mary Ann Parkin, David May, Karen Leimer, Cathy Cunningham, Michael May, Teresa May-Teerink, Brendan May, Brian May, Barry Smith and Brian Smith.
He was blessed with 23 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
He was devout to his faith and devoted to the Church of the Resurrection of which he was a passionate and involved member.
Inspired by a sermon message by Pastor Adam Hamilton, Joe resolved to do something different each year at Christmas time. In lieu of material gifts, he and Barb would endorse a charitable, Christian-based organization to promote and support people in need in marginalized communities around the world. Each year the May family together gave a charitable gift via Joe and Barb’s philanthropic initiative.
Some organizations they supported are Wells For Life, Global Orphan Project, St. Michael’s Veterans Center and Matthew’s Ministry.
Joe loved history and was an avid reader of books on all subjects, particularly United States history, the founding fathers and more. He loved the Kansas City Chiefs and his wife’s chocolate chip cookies.
A Celebration of Life will be 11:00 AM Monday, April 8, 2019 at Church of the Resurrection, main sanctuary, 13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, KS 66224, with a reception to follow. Inurnment will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at the National Cemetery, Leavenworth, KS. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to the Matthew's Ministry at COR.