Obituary of Johnnie Mayes

Johnny Mayes was born in Monroe on February 2, 1946. He was the son of the late Stirling Benjamin and Bobby "Sally" (Linkes) Mayes. He attended Custer and Jefferson Schools before earning his GED at Monroe. Johnny began working in construction at the age of fourteen. He worked with JET Builders, Ed St. Bernard and brothers: Jerry and Ted. He later partnered with Ted at Star Construction for more than twenty years, before Ted's passing. Although, construction was how Johnny made a living, his life work was that of building relationships. He found AA more than twenty-two years ago and used this forum to first help himself and then placed his focus on others. Johnny was always seen with a smile on his face and a cell phone in his hand. A member of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church he enjoyed sharing his love of the Lord with many and his humbling spirit led them onto the right path. Johnny was funny, quick witted, and had the gift of gab. He was the "the personal entertainer" wherever he went. Johnny blessed others with his music, and for many years played guitar and sang in the band "Six Gun". Johnny shared his life with many special people including the women who brought him the joy of children: Jan Yoakum married in 1964, Jewel Russell in 1971, and the love of his life: Debbie Bailey whom he shared twenty years of his life with. Johnny had a passion for family; his grandchildren, the g. girls and g. guys were his life; and he enjoyed spending time with them whenever possible. He brought his family together time and time again being the travel guide for more than fifty cruises. Johnny, age 69, passed away at 2:48am on March 12, 2015 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio surrounded by his loving family. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by daughter: Fanci; brothers: Robert, David and Ted Mayes; and sister: Betty Uhl. To cherish his memory, Johnny leaves the love of his life: Debbie Mayes; six children: Johnnie Kellie, Carla (Tim) Woodby, Tina Mayes, Misty (Irv) Strack, Travis Mayes, Holly (Chad) Haynes, step son: Chad McElvany, step daughter: Rachael (Matt) Gloyd; brother: Jerry (Lynda) Costelli; sisters: Shirley Giljum; Melody (Jackie) Jordan, Velvet (Randy) Rauton, and Heather (John) Chaney; seventeen grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren with two on the way. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm on Sunday, March 15, 2015 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway (734)241-7070. He will lie in state from 10:00am until a Celebration of His Life at 11:00am on Monday, March 16, 2015 at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church, 14260 South Dixie Highway with Pastor Roy Southerland officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Mayes Family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.