James May Obituary

James Edward May, Jr., 71, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, at his home in Lexington, South Carolina, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on January 14, 1954, in Erie, Pennsylvania, the second child to Katherine and James Edward May, Sr. He learned early in life about the importance of hard work and dedication to family growing up on a dairy farm. His roots in agriculture later helped him earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Business Management with High Distinction from The Pennsylvania State University and a Master's of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from Loyola University, Baltimore, Maryland. Jim dedicated over 40 years of his life to agribusiness and several more years to supporting the life of the small town farmer through the Farm Credit System. For 20 years Jim was a PIAA football official in York County, Pennsylvania. In 1982, he married the love of his life, Betty Lucinda "Cindy" (Shoenfelt) May. Together they shared 43 wonderful years together. Jim is survived by his wife, Cindy, daughter, Katie Kyprianou, (Marcus), granddaughter, Ella, grandson, Leon, son, Jonathan, (Bianca Richier}, grandson, Dean, sister, Sheryl, (Gary Fabian}, brothers, Doug (Linda}, Brad, (Laurie). He is also survived by nieces, nephews, a great-niece, and cousins. Jim is preceded in death by his older sister Mary Ann Ebert, his parents, James Edward May, Sr., and Katherine Gertrude (Wargo) May. Jim was known for his warm heart behind a stoic exterior, his unwavering integrity, and his deep love for his family. He had a quiet strength, a dry sense of humor, and a talent for inspiring people without him even realizing it. A memorial service will be held on October 11, 2025 from 11 am - 1 pm. at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, South Carolina, 29073. All who knew and loved Jim are welcome to attend, share some memories, and enjoy a light meal. Another memorial service will be held in June/July 2026 in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania with details later to come in early 2026. The family would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Agape Hospice for the compassion and support during his final days. Jim's legacy of love, service, and quiet strength will continue to live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P O Box, 849168, Boston, MA 02284.