Thomas Edward May

We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Thomas May on September 10, 2025, at the age of 80. Tom brought joy wherever he went; a truly fun, loving, and unforgettable presence in the lives of everyone who had the privilege to know him.

Born on May 8, 1945 in Eubank KY, Tom was someone who never met a stranger. He had the rare gift of making people feel instantly at home, whether through a shared laugh, or one of his legendary stories. A natural storyteller, Tom had a gift for turning everyday moments into something special and any gathering into a memorable occasion.

Above all, Tom was loving - deeply devoted to his family, friends, and community. He lived with an open heart, always putting others first, and offering unwavering support and encouragement. His love wasn’t just spoken, it was shown through everyday actions, big and small.

Tom was also a person of deep faith, who carried his beliefs with humility and grace. He leaned on that faith through life’s ups and downs, and it guided how he treated others with kindness, compassion, and integrity.

Perhaps most unforgettable was Tom’s sense of humor. His playful spirit and gentle mischief brought smiles and laughter to countless faces.

Tom is survived by his wife Brenda May; his five sisters, Louise Webb (Walton) of Rixeyville, VA, Peggy Ruckel (Lewis) of Eubank, KY, Donna Ruckel (Lloyd) of Waynesburg, KY, Emma B. Ruckel (Leonard) of Eubank, KY, Anna Hubble of Bossier City, LA; his four children, Shauna Deal (Bobby) Statesville, NC, Brian May (Suzanne) Madison, AL, Greg May (Diana) Marietta, GA, Vanessa May, Statesville, NC; his nine grandchildren, Dustin Deal, Brenna Bell (Matthew), Lydia May, Rian May, Amelia May, Ellie Benfield, Tanis May, Anna May, and Lane Fulbright; his two step-grandchildren Steven Kaga, and Kevin Kaga; his three great grandkids Stevie Bell, Murphy Bell, and Baby Price. Joining in peace those who passed before are: parents, Marvin & Katherine Hubble May; sisters Jean Reichel (Paul) of Cincinnati, OH, Patsy Walker (Jerry) of Somerset, KY, Jenny Singleton (Larry) of Eubank, KY, and Alice Mullins of Eubank, KY, and his brother Johnny May, Eubank, KY.

While Tom has left this world, the laughter, stories, and love Tom gave us will live on - in every story he told and every smile from a memory.

A celebration of his life will take place on September 13, at Broad Street Church of Christ, Statesville, NC, beginning at 11:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gordon Hospice House https://apps.hoic.org/donate-now, in honor of Tom’s generous heart.

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Thomas May.