Stanley “Stan” R. May

Stanley Ross May, age 63, visionary, entrepreneur, and community leader of Anderson, IN, transitioned to his heavenly home on June 11, 2021, following an extended illness. He was born in Anderson, IN to L. C. and Katherine May.

Stanley graduated from Madison Heights High School, Anderson, IN in 1977. After graduation he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Indiana State University and pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He then moved to Hartford, Connecticut to work for United Technologies and Boeing Corporation. During this time, he also worked for Fuqua Funeral Home.

In the early 90’s, Stanley worked for Delco Remy Division of General Motors as a production supervisor and purchasing engineer with assignments that included Mexico. Later he accepted a position at Delphi Division, GM in Kokomo, IN.  

Based on his experience in Hartford, Stanley felt a passion to join his father in the funeral care business.  In 1989 Stanley went to the New England School of Mortuary Science, Boston, MA., obtaining his degree and licensing in Mortuary Science. In November 1991 Stanley joined L. C. May Funeral Services as a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer.

Stanley accomplishments included his years of leadership as General Manager and Lead Funeral Director at L. C. May Funeral Services, Inc. Under his direction, the business flourished as it provided funeral services to many families throughout central Indiana. Stanley facilitated a major renovation of the funeral home facilities which are appreciated by all today. 

On June 18, 2015, he married the love of his life Sandra Kay Summerville. 

In addition to his family and the funeral home Stanley found most rewarding his service to the community. He served as a mentor to many young people providing encouragement, and career guidance at the Township Youth Center Coalition. He always promoted furthering their education to obtain their career goals.

His vast civic involvement included board positions on Madison County Community Health Center, The Gospel Highlights, Madison County Urban League, African American Leadership Forum, Unity Leadership Coalition, Junior Warden with Peerless Lodge Masonic Hall.

Stanley’s hobbies included fishing, travel, reading and nice restaurants with his loving wife. He loved Black history, listening to jazz, watching the Discovery Channel, and attending Homecoming at his alma mater.

Stanley is survived by his wife of six years, Sandra K. May of Anderson, IN;  daughters, Sheaneta M. Rowe (Kevin) of Pinson, AL, Na Lynn B. Jones of Anderson, IN;  sons, David L. Jones, Jr., Nathan A. Jones (Amy Jo) both of Anderson, IN; mother, Katherine G. May of Anderson, IN; brothers, Andrew May of San Diego, CA, Ronald L. May (Chelsea) of Indianapolis, IN, David V. May (Bettie), Joseph A. May (Veda) of Anderson, IN; sisters, Letha Ruby May Smith of San Diego, CA, Valerie May of Anderson, IN; adorable grandchildren and great grandchildren, loving aunts, Reeba (John, deceased),  Willie Mae (Billie Joe, deceased), Gloria Gibbs of Newport News, VA; uncle, James May (Gail) of Tucson, AZ, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, many special friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving father, L.C. May; grandparents, Billy Joe (B.J) Sr., (Ruby), Ezell E. Eldridge, Sr. (Nellie M.), James Gibbs (Ada); uncle, Adair Gibbs and deceased loyal family pets Colby and Chief Anderson.

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