Gerald "Jerry" Mays' Obituary
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.”
Philippians 3:20-21
Gerald “Jerry” Mays, Jr., 68, passed away very unexpectedly at his home, leaving a deep and profound loss felt by his family and all who loved him. Jerry had struggled with severe mobility challenges caused by neuropathy, which likely contributed to the fall that took his life.
It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished son, beloved brother, caring uncle and cousin, and loyal friend.
Jerry was born on July 3, 1957, in Dallas, Texas to Jerry and Joe Ann Mays. His family later moved to Kansas City, where his father played for the Kansas City Chiefs. Jerry stayed in Kansas to attend the University of Kansas, where he built lifelong friendships with his Phi Delta Theta fraternity brothers - bonds that remained strong throughout his life. He later returned to Dallas and earned a Civil Engineering degree from Southern Methodist University.
Jerry began his career in the family business, Avery Mays Construction, founded by his grandfather. He went on to build a highly successful career in commercial real estate, joining Trammell Crow Company, where he discovered his true professional calling. His work there led to roles at Prentiss Properties and, ultimately, Stream Realty Partners - Founded by former Trammell Crow colleagues - where he served as Senior Director of Design and Construction. Jerry’s sharp instincts, professionalism, and dedication earned him the deep respect of colleagues, clients, and friends across the industry.
In 2009, Jerry married Linda Hager, the love of his life. Their “Sweet 16” years of marriage were filled with love, joy, and laughter, shared with family and friends. They enjoyed traveling together and also with family and friends. Their lake home in Granbury became a treasured place of rest and celebration - a peaceful retreat where cherished memories were made. Jerry and Linda were also devoted members of First Baptist Church Dallas, where they were spiritually fed by the teaching of God’s word and blessed with meaningful friendships.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry will be remembered most for the warmth and generosity he brought into the lives of others. He especially loved the Fall season - his favorite time of year. When the air turned crisp and the leaves began to fall, Jerry came alive spending Sunday afternoons watching football with a fire in the hearth, a pot of his famous homemade soup or a plate of wings, and a gathering of true, loyal fans to watch the Dallas Cowboys. He was also a lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan and a former avid runner who once ran ten miles daily, completing each mile in six minutes purely for the exhilaration of it.
Jerry loved the outdoors - fishing with his grandsons, hunting with his son Jared, and being in nature with those he loved. He gave himself freely and humbly, expecting nothing in return. His love for his family knew no bounds, and his quiet strength, humility, and faith left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
He began each morning in quiet reflection, reading devotionals from his favorite Christian writers. His unwavering faith in Jesus Christ shaped every aspect of his life and was the foundation of the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. Jerry’s life was a living testimony of grace, devotion, and servant-hearted love.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Mays. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Mays; his son, Jared Mays; his stepsons, Ryan Youngblood (Crissa) and Garrett Youngblood (Ashley); and his grandchildren: Chloe, Miles, and Cash Youngblood, and Warren and Prescott Youngblood. He is also survived by his mother, Joe Ann Mays; his sisters, Sandy Mays and Sherrie Baker (Austin); and his Aunt Joyce, niece, nephews, cousins, and extended family - each of whom held a special place in his heart.
Jerry’s presence will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered. His spirit lives on in every Cowboys game, every peaceful moment at the lake, and every act of quiet generosity. We take comfort in the assurance that we will see him again in our eternal home.
Jerry’s wish was to be cremated. The date of a memorial service is to be determined. Jerry’s monetary generosity spanned to many worthy causes however Tunnel to Towers Foundation impressed on his heart so please donate to this worthy organization in lieu of flowers.
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