Jennie Lou Mays

Jennie Louise (Hughes) Mays, affectionately known as "Jennie Lou," passed away on May 9, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on November 24, 1929, in Roswell, New Mexico, Jennie Lou led a remarkable life characterized by warmth, love, and unwavering support for her family.

Her professional journey began at the age of 45, where she dedicated over 20 years of her life to Roswell Radiology. Starting as the person who delivered films, Jennie Lou's commitment and hard work saw her transition into the role of secretary, ultimately retiring as the individual responsible for bookkeeping. Alongside her career, Jennie Lou embraced the roles of homemaker, mother, and wife with grace and skill. Her home was always a haven of comfort, with perfectly maintained yards, beautifully prepared meals, and pristine living spaces that reflected her meticulous nature.

Educated at Roswell High School, where she graduated as salutatorian, Jennie Lou demonstrated her resilience by returning to complete her studies after getting married at the age of 17, as a senior in high school. On September 29, 1947, she married Richard Dale Sr., and together they built a loving home filled with cherished memories.

As a mother and grandmother, Jennie Lou took immense pride in nurturing her family. She created fond memories of Angel Food and later German chocolate cakes, hand-made clothing for herself and her daughter Nanci until Nanci's marriage, and crafting imaginative Halloween costumes for the great-granddaughters. A source of inspiration, Jennie Lou was always present at concerts and games, celebrating the achievements of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, no matter the distance.

Jennie Lou's gentle personality and determination shone through in all aspects of her life. Whether learning to operate a John Deere riding mower or managing the family's household after Dale became ill, she exemplified persistence and attention to detail. Her legacy is that of the glue that held her family together, a steadfast presence whose love knew no bounds.

In her leisure time, Jennie Lou enjoyed reading, Bible study, sewing, cooking, and spending time with her family. As she transitioned into a smaller home following the passing of her husband, she remained proud of her ability to adapt, moving to Shawnee away from her hometown and maintaining the beautiful spirit with which she approached life.

She was a long time member of St. Luke's Methodist Church in Oklahoma City.

She is preceded in death by beloved husband Richard DALE Mays, Sr.; parents Henry J. and Alma Grace “Peggy” (Stevens) Hughes; brother James “Jim” Hughes; brother Richard Hughes; sister Mardine Hughes Cooper; sister Peggy Ann Hughes Paradee; grandparents Orville Karl “Doc” and S. Louise (Wheeler) Stevens; grandparents James Henry and Jennie (White) Hughes; and other wonderful relatives, in-law brothers, sisters, parents and ancestors.

She is survived by daughter Nanci Mays Sackman (Gary) of Shawnee, OK; son Richard D. Mays, Jr. (Davida) of Roswell, NM; son Robert Mays (Margaret) of Las Cruces, NM; granddaughter Maniqua Donaldson (DeWayne) of Catoosa, OK; granddaughter Devra Sackman of Henderson, NV; granddaughter Erica Bittle of Roswell, NM; great-grandson Brayden Bittle of Roswell, NM; great-grandson Parker Dale Bittle of Roswell, NM; great-granddaughter Madalynne Tritz (Dr. Daniel Tritz and great-great grandsons Archer and Harrison), of Tulsa, OK; great-granddaughter Avery Donaldson of Hays, KS; step-grandson Chief Warrant Officer 5 Christopher Doubrava (USMC), currently stationed in Japan (Arlene and step great-grandsons Nicholas and Lucas); and many dear nieces, nephews and in-law relatives.

Jennie Louise Mays will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for the profound impact she had on the lives of those who loved her. Her spirit of kindness, quiet strength, and dedication to family will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral services will be held June 6, 2025 at 10:00 am at LaGrone Funeral Chapel and Crematory in Roswell, NM with a burial to follow at South Park Cemetery. Rev. Tina Cross and Brian Cooper will be officiating. Services will be livestreamed through LaGrone Funeral Chapel.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to First United Methodist Church at 200 N. Pennsylvania Roswell, NM 88201.