James May

James May Jr, 77, of California, MD and formerly of Winchester, VA passed away Monday, July 20, 2026, in Maryland. Mr. May was born on August 13, 1948, the son of the late James O. May, Jr. and the late Lureathea Moore May. James attended public school in Wilson, NC and completed his public education in Stamford, CT. He worked at Pitney Bowes for eighteen years, where he met the love of his life, Viola McRae. James and Viola joined in holy matrimony on November 22, 1975, and spent fifty-three wonderful years together. To this union was born three children: Kym Sheree’, James Oscar III, and Teena Melynn. James received the Holy Ghost and was baptized at Little Zion COOLJC in Norwalk, CT. James and Viola moved to Winchester, VA in 1987, where they attended Apostolic Church under the leadership of Rev. Richard Fosdick, which later became Cornerstone UPC under the leadership of Rev. Jeff Dillon. James served as the worship leader for thirty years, a member of the choir, and served as an Elder of the church for many years. In addition to his parents, Mr. May was preceded in death by three sisters: Ruby D. Foreman, Joyce M. May, Patricia A. Price; his six brothers Ray Dixon, Willie Albert, Charles Haywood May, twins Ronnie and Donnie May, and Gregory May. He leaves behind to cherish his memory: his beloved wife Viola McRae May; his children Kym S. Bell (James Tyrone), James O. May (Wendy Legg), Teena M. May; his two grandsons Ronald Tyrell May & Judah Malik James Bell; his sister Sylvia Miller; his brother Turman May; two aunts Rosa Bea Ragin, Sudie Mae Woodad, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. A celebration of life and homegoing service for Mr. May will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Cornerstone United Pentecostal Church with Rev. Jeff Dillon and Rev. Jason Staten officiating. Mr. May will be laid to rest privately. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. You may submit your condolences online at www.stoverfuneralhome.com. Stover Funeral Home and Crematory, Strasburg, VA is honored to serve the family of James May, Jr.