Max Mayes

Max Mayes departed this world on September 15, 2026, at the age of 86. Above all, Max was a committed Christian; he possessed a faith that made him a selfless husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, educator and friend. He died in his newly acquired home in Mt. Pleasant from a sudden cardiac event.

Max was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Cleties Mayes of Pryorsburg, KY, and his wife of 64 years, Sweet Sarah, just 5 months ago. He is survived by his younger brother, Dr. Jerry Mayes and his wife Jan of Dothan, AL.

Max met and married his “soul mate” Sarah Louise Distler on August 27, 1961, at the Pryorsburg Church of Christ and commenced a life together for almost 65 years. Max and Sarah were beloved examples of faithfulness and service in each congregation they called home: the East Peoria Church of Christ, Church of Christ Northwest, and Northridge Church of Christ. At each church, Max faithfully served as an elder, giving of his time, wisdom, and heart to the Lord and His people. Max made 8 mission trips to Ghana and Honduras as well as the surrounding community to share the Word and love of God.

Max will be greatly missed by his three children; Greg Mayes (Kristen), Lisa Fenley (Keith), and Shawn Mayes (Arlene). He also left behind nine grandchildren; Kaela Mayes, Taylor Mayes (Brene’), Jordan Mayes (Kylie), Austin Fenley (Katelynn), Katy Davison (AJ), Mitchell Mayes, Riley Mayes, Kelcy Mayes, and Meredith Mayes. And finally, 9 great grandchildren; Renleigh Richie, Kanaan Johnson, Sterling Mayes, Ellie Mae Fenley, Wesley Mayes, Clementine Fenley, Maren Mayes, Audrey Mayes, and Blaire Mayes, along with many nieces & nephews

Max was raised on a small farm in Pryorsburg, KY, and established his excellence immediately in church, community service, academics and athletics. He was widely recognized for his talents in baseball, basketball and track and received numerous awards at the district, regional and state levels. Following an outstanding high school career, he earned a full scholarship in basketball from Southwestern Louisiana University and played one year before succumbing to his desire to be closer to home. He finished his years of eligibility at David Lipscomb College in Nashville where he met Sarah. Upon graduation, Max continued his career in education & athletics with teaching/coaching stents at David Lipscomb College, Austin Peay University and finally, Illinois Central College where he spent 33 years teaching and administering the intramural sports program at Illinois Central; then he traveled 3 years with Sarah working for Peoria Charters before fully retiring in Texas.

Max was the epitome of “a life well lived.” He will be sorely missed until that great eternal reunion.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “The School of Hope” in Honduras. Please send any donations to The Northridge church of Christ, 212 W. Burton Road, Mt. Pleasant TX.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Josh. 24:15

Online guest book can be signed at www.currywelborn.com

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Curry-Welborn Funeral Home.