There are some lives that are measured not simply by the years they lived, but by the lives they touched, the faith they shared, and the legacy they leave behind. Reverend Theodore Gerone Mays, Sr. was one of those lives.

Reverend Mays was born on December 21, 1942, in Homer, Louisiana, to the late Arbe Mays and Lillie Richard. He received his early education in Winnsboro, Louisiana, before relocating to Dallas, Texas, in 1958, where he would make his home and build a life centered around family, faith, hard work, and service.

In Dallas, Theodore met Dorothy J. Brown, and the two were united in marriage. Their union was blessed with three children, and a bonus child that he raised as his own. As a husband and father, Theodore understood the importance of family and the responsibility of providing, protecting, and being present for those he loved.

In the early 1980s, Theodore answered a higher calling when he accepted his call to the ministry. His faith became an even greater part of his life's journey. He loved the church, loved being in the presence of God's people, and found joy in serving and encouraging others. His ministry was not confined to the pulpit—it was reflected in the way he lived, worked, loved, and treated people.

A man of many talents and a strong work ethic, Reverend Mays was gainfully employed in several areas throughout his life. His career included construction work with the City of Dallas, Baylor Hospital, CertainTeed Roofing Products, Mays Tire Shop, Central Freight Lines, and Dr Pepper. Through every chapter of his working life, he demonstrated determination, perseverance, and the dignity of an honest day's work.

Later in life, Theodore met and married Gwen Bishop. Their marriage brought another chapter of companionship and love into his life. Although no children were born to this union, they shared the blessings of marriage and the journey of life together.

Beyond his work and ministry, Theodore knew how to appreciate the simple things that made life meaningful. He loved going to church, spending time working in his yard, and listening to and enjoying quartet singing. He loved quoting his favorite word 'FOR REAL' . Music, faith, fellowship, and the beauty of a well-tended yard were among the things that brought him joy.

He was a man who believed in showing up—showing up for his family, showing up for his church, showing up for work, and showing up for the people who needed him. His hands knew the value of hard work, his heart knew the value of faith, and his life became a testimony to both.

Though his earthly journey has come to an end, Reverend Theodore Gerone Mays, Sr. leaves behind a legacy that will continue to speak through the family he loved, the people he served, and the memories he created.

His life reminds us that a legacy is not always found in grand moments. Sometimes it is found in a father's love, a husband's devotion, a worker's perseverance, a minister's faith, a song shared with friends, or the quiet satisfaction of standing in a yard that one's own hands helped make beautiful.

He labored. He loved. He served. He believed.

And now, after a life well lived, may he rest from his labor and enjoy eternal peace.

Reverend Theodore Gerone Mays, Sr. leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving children:

Belinda Smith; Theodore (Shemetra) Mays, Jr.; and Tyra Mays, all of Dallas, Texas; and a beloved bonus child, William “Buddy” E. Fuller.

He leaves a legacy of love to his grandchildren: Demarcus Mays, Bri'Onna Smith, Kianna Smith, Tiana Mays, Theodore Mays III, Dyamond Mays, Mariah Clark, and Malacai King.

His memory will also live on through his great-grandchildren: Jason Pruitt, Jr., A.J. Williams, and Jamar Bell.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings: Charles (Diane) Fuller, Sr.; William E. Fuller; Jackie (Sherise) Fuller; Johnny (Renata) Fuller; Gregory Fuller; Billie J. Fuller; Minister Glenda Fuller; Luvennia Fuller; Clara Maxey; Mary (Jimmy) Washington; Evelyn Brown; and Sherry Fuller.

He leaves behind a special grandsons:John Bell II & John Bell III and granddaughter: Jacie Bell, host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, church family, and dear friends whose lives were touched by his presence and who will forever treasure the memories they shared with him.

Though our hearts are heavy with his absence, we are grateful for the years, the lessons, the laughter, the prayers, the songs, and the memories. His earthly voice may be silent, but the love he gave and the legacy he built will continue to speak for generations to come.

A faithful servant. A loving father. A cherished grandfather. A beloved brother. And a man whose life will never be forgotten.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed.