Wilbur Eugene Mays, Sr., 83, a beacon of kindness and service, peacefully entered eternal rest on September 12, 2026. Born on March 26, 1943, in Sunshine, Kentucky. Wilbur was the son of the late Robert Jess Mays and Geneva Elizabeth Vaughn. He was also the beloved brother of the late James Walter Mays and Robert Leon Mays.

Wilbur was a graduate of Western High School. He retired from Green River Steel, where he worked until its closure. Later, he dedicated his efforts as a guard at MPD. Yet, it was in his role as the neighborhood mechanic, alongside his dear best friend, “BRUH”, the late Michael Moorman. While also fixing cars, “The Garage” was also a hangout for family and friends.

Wilbur accepted Christ at an early age. He was a member of Sweeny Street Baptist Church, where he became an Ordained Deacon under Rev. J.E. Gillis. Later he joined Zion Baptist Church. He served as a Sunday School Teacher, Chairman of the Senior Deacon Board, Chairman of the Trustee Board, Member of the Finance Committee, and Zion Brotherhood Choir, and a former member of the Men's Mass Community Choir.

Wilbur’s greatest love was his high school sweetheart, Jacquelyn Tinsley. Together, they shared 64 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family.

He is survived by his wife, Jacquelyn T. Mays, their children: Jean Rochelle (Michael) Brown of Hephzibah, GA; Catanna Lynn (Michael) King of Hephzibah, GA; Jillene (Paul) Carter of Owensboro; Wilbur Eugene Mays, Jr. of Owensboro; and Christopher Brandon (Kanicia) Mays of Bowling Green, KY.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Courtney Carter, Shanise Mingledolph, Mariah Langston, Michaela Walker, Chelsea Rowan, Xavier Hoover, India Fields, Kyell Mays, and Khary Mays; his great-grandchildren, Arlee and Eli Langston, and Bryon III and Rhyan Mingledolph; his brother, McCellus (Pauline) Mays of Owensboro; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones.

Wilbur's passions were many; joy in the laughter of family gatherings, he found solace in reading and studying The Bible. He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. His jack-of-all-trades nature was only surpassed by his infectious smile, which had a way of lighting up even the darkest of days.

He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026 at Zion Baptist Church, 2311 W. 9th Street, Owensboro, KY 42301 with Rev. Larry D. Lewis presiding and Rev. Jerrell M. Clark, Pastor. Entombment will follow at Owensboro Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, 5050 East Hwy 144, Owensboro, KY 42303. Visitation will be held at McFarland Funeral Home on Sunday September 20, 2026 from 3pm - 5pm.

His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

“ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Memories and messages of condolence can be left for the family at www.mcfarlandfh.com.

Final arrangement entrusted to McFarland Funeral Home, Inc., 1001 W 5th St., Owensboro, KY 42301.