Ellisa Janet Mays, lovingly known as “Lisa,” of McKee, Kentucky, passed away on May
14, 2026, at the age of 65. Born on May 15, 1960, she was the cherished daughter of
the late EJ and Anita Hayes.
Lisa is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Ronnie Mays, whom she joined in
marriage on June 10, 1978. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, family,
and simple joys on their farm. She is also survived by her two daughters, Staci York
and Jessica Mays. Elisa cherished her three grandchildren, Malorie York, Natalie
York, and Kenton York, who were all among the greatest joys of her life.
In addition to her parents, Lisa was preceded in death by her brother, Roger Hayes.
She is also survived by her sister, Cathy Hayes; her brother, Steve Hayes; beloved
nieces and nephews; lifelong friends; and countless others who considered her
family.
Lisa retired from the GE Lamp Plant after years of dedicated service. Though she
worked hard throughout her life, her greatest calling was caring for others. To
know Lisa was to know generosity, resilience, humor, and unconditional love.
Lisa was the backbone of her family. She loved deeply, cared endlessly for those
around her, and always stepped back so others could shine. She was the most
selfless and devoted mother and grandmother, and many jokingly say she was a
nurse. As her father lovingly described her, Lisa was a “tough ol’ bird.” Through
every trial and tribulation life placed before her, she continued pushing forward
with strength of the love she carried for those around her.
Her favorite days were spent with family and friends filling her home with laughter,
stories, and home-cooked meals. Lisa was a true host at heart, somehow always
preparing enough food to feed anyone who walked through her door — and then
some. Her spirit was sweet yet feisty; never knowing what she’d come-up with next.
While she enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places, Lisa’s true joy was at
home on the farm with Ronnie. Their days were filled with gardens, animals,
laughter, and a life they built side by side. If she wasn’t at home, she was likely
cheering on one of her grandbabies at a ballgame, helping someone in need, or
running errands for others before ever thinking of herself.
Anyone who met Lisa left feeling seen, loved, and welcomed. She could strike up a
conversation with anyone, and she had a way with words that could leave an entire
room laughing. Her laughter was infectious, her personality unforgettable, and her
heart unmatched. She remained adventurous and youthful at heart, always willing
to try something new and always encouraging others to do the same.
To her family, Lisa was their rock and greatest source of strength. She spent her life
encouraging the people she loved, pushing them to believe in themselves even
when they couldn’t yet see their own potential. She led by example through hard
work, sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. She loved
fiercely, stood up for those who could not stand up for themselves, and never
stopped showing up for the people she cared about — whether from the stands at a
ballgame, beside them during difficult times, or quietly supporting them behind the
scenes.
To so many others, Lisa was more than a relative or friend; she was a cheerleader, a
safe place, and a light. The memories she created through laughter, kindness,
generosity, and love will continue living on in the hearts of those who knew her.
The word generosity barely scratches the surface when describing Lisa Janet Mays.
She would have given the shirt off her back to anyone who needed it.
The sacrifices she made for the people she loved may never fully be understood, but
the legacy she leaves behind is undeniable. Lisa led with love. She gave through
love. She lived through love. Simply put — Lisa was love.
Though her family’s hearts are shattered by this loss, they find comfort in knowing
Lisa’s love, strength, laughter, and spirit will continue living on through every life
she touched.
Funeral services will be conducted on Sunday May 17th, 2026 at 2:00 PM with Bro. Mike Angel presiding.
Burial will follow at New Zion Cemetery.
Pallbearers will include: Marty York, Kenton York, Jason Cox, Elliott Cox, Austin
Hayes, Bill Patrick, and Randy Teetor
Honorary Pallbearers: Steve Hayes and Danny Cox
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations, acts of kindness, or prayers be
shared in Lisa’s memory, honoring the same generosity and love she so freely gave
to others throughout her life.
Lisa Janet Mays will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered.
