Jerry Mayes

Jerry Mayes, age 83, of Taylorsville, departed this life during the early morning hours of Monday, October 27, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Jerry was born on September 14, 1942, in Alexander County, the son of the late Nellie Mildred Mayes. He was a graduate of Happy Plains High School, where he was the salutatorian of his class. After graduation, he worked for Schneider Mills for many years and served as a supervisor until his retirement. Jerry accepted Christ at an early age and was a devoted member of the Baptist faith. He served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and musician. He was also active in his community as a member and past president of the Taylorsville Lions Club, and a member of the Taylorsville Jaycees. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed NASCAR and go-kart racing. He also loved gospel music.

Jerry was preceded in death by his mother; his son, Lee Gary Mayes; his brother, Willis Mayes Sr.; his sister-in-law, Carolyn Mayes; and his niece, Peggy Marie Parker.

Those left to cherish and honor Jerry’s memory include his loving wife of 61 years, Clara Flowers Mayes; his children, Michael Mayes of Denver, NC, Curtis Mayes of Owings, MD, and Tilara Mayes Sims (Lee) of Richmond, VA. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Tashia Gray (Joey) of Griffin, GA; Shaykila Mayes of Hickory; and Caleiah and Camryn Sims of VA; as well as his great-grandchildren: Zyon Watson, Saige Gray, and Camille Gray, all of GA.

Additional survivors include his sister, Suma Nell Watts of Taylorsville; and nieces, Clarissa El, Theresa M. Dalton (Kenneth), and Ingrid M. Smith (Marvin), Zenobia Gaines (Chris); and nephews, Kirk Douglas Barker, Dean Barker, and Willis Mayes (Tonya). He is also survived by his godson, Linc Howell, and special neighbors and family friends, Richard Wellman and Adrian Redmond.

The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, October 31, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Vince Linney serving as Eulogist and Rev. William Little officiating. Burial will follow in the Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery on Highway 90 East in Taylorsville.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Mr. Mayes’ body will lie in state from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658. Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services are honored to serve the family of Jerry Mayes.

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