Mr. John Arthur Mays Jr., of 234 Mays Road, Smithville, Georgia, died Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Kansas City, Kansas.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the chapel of the J. W.  Williams Funeral Home in Cordele, Georgia.

Everyone entering the funeral home for visitations or services must wear a mask and practice social distancing.  A mask must be worn throughout the stay.  You must supply your mask.

John Arthur Mays, Jr. was born on January 6, 1980, in Lee County, Georgia, to John Arthur Mays, Sr. and Peggy Ann Mays-Williams. From a young age, John was surrounded by a loving family and a tight-knit community, which shaped him into the man he became.

John's educational journey began in the Lee County School System, where he laid the foundation for his lifelong curiosity and knowledge. He furthered his education at Albany Technical College, earning a certificate in Auto Body Paint and Collision  Repair—a testament to his dedication and skill in his chosen field.

John's faith was an integral part of his life. He was an early member of Piney Grove #3 Baptist Church, where he cultivated a deep connection with God. Later, he attended Labor of Love in Albany, Georgia, continuing his spiritual journey and nurturing his faith.

A commercial trucker by profession, John found his true calling on the open road. He loved the freedom and adventure that came with trucking, and his passion for the job was evident to all who knew him. His enthusiasm for his work was as strong as his love for the Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia Bulldogs, embodying the spirit of a true "Georgia Boi."

John was a man of few words, but those who knew him well were treated to his delightful sense of humor. He had a unique ability to make people laugh, bringing joy to those around him. His circle of friends and family was filled with love and laughter, and he cherished these relationships deeply.

John Arthur Mays, Jr. departed this life on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John Arthur Mays, Sr. and Peggy Ann Mays-Williams, as well as his grandparents, Jesse Cooper Mays, Eleanor Holmes Mays, Curley Williams, and Willie Williams.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him, as his laughter and spirit continue to inspire and uplift.  He is survived by his loving and devoted sister, LaDea'dra Mays (Daniel) of Smithville, Georgia; his aunts and uncles, Shirleen Ware of Ellenwood, Georgia, Evelyn Mays Wright (Arthur) of Cobb, Georgia, Mattie Sue Childs (Claude) of Conyers, Georgia, and Horace Noble Mays, Sr. of Leslie, Georgia; two cousins he regarded as brothers, Horace Noble Mays, Jr. of Leslie, Georgia and Timothy James Kent of Savannah, Georgia; his sister/friend, Stacey Rouland (Jontavis) of Leesburg, Georgia; a host of caring cousins, other relatives and many special and sorrowing friends.