Wayne May

Stephen Wayne May, a resident of Franklin, KY, left his earthly home to make resident in his heavenly one on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026, at the age of 76, alongside his beloved wife and other special family present. Wayne was born on April 30, 1950, at 8:45 p.m. at Carter Moore Hospital in Franklin, Kentucky, to the late Robert London May and Frances Angel May.

Wayne attended Franklin-Simpson Schools and graduated with the Franklin-Simpson High School Class of 1968. In 1975, he joined the Franklin Police Department, where he faithfully served in law enforcement for more than 39 years.

Wayne was a man of extraordinary talent and curiosity, capable of accomplishing things far beyond what most people could imagine. A self-taught artist, he excelled in painting and drawing and expanded his creativity into scrimshaw, woodworking, and even hand-carving a viola. His musical abilities were equally remarkable. Whether at a piano, with a violin, or playing the Highland bagpipes, Wayne had an incredible gift for mastering any instrument he picked up.

His passion for learning never ceased. At one point, he built a flyable airplane and became a pilot himself. Recognizing the need for translators in law enforcement, he also taught himself three languages. Wayne possessed a lifelong desire to grow, learn, and use his talents to serve others.

In 1977, Bro. William Powell led Wayne to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, forever changing the course of his life. From that day forward, he dedicated himself to serving the Lord with the same passion and excellence that marked every area of his life.

Wayne had a special love for children and faithfully used his God-given gifts to point young hearts toward Christ. Alongside his beloved wife, Celia, he welcomed children who had no home church, picking them up each Sunday morning in their van so they could attend church. For many, Wayne and Celia became “adopted grandparents,” lovingly investing in their lives and meeting both their physical and spiritual needs.

Throughout the years, Wayne faithfully served in many areas of ministry, including Children’s Church, song leading, special music, and occasionally filling the pulpit. His creativity made the Gospel come alive as he used puppets, object lessons, and his trusted monkey sidekicks, Lenny and RC Nanner, to teach children about Jesus.

Wayne’s love for music extended beyond instruments. He was a gifted singer with an incredible talent for character voices and impersonations. From Elvis Presley to Elmer Fudd, there seemed to be no voice he couldn’t imitate, bringing joy and laughter to everyone around him.

Another cherished part of Wayne and Celia’s ministry was their faithful visits to local nursing homes, where they shared the love of Christ through singing, playing music, and reading God’s Word to residents. Wayne’s life beautifully reflected what it means to be a true servant of Jesus Christ, a life marked by compassion, humility, generosity, and a genuine love for others.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Celia Bogle May; his daughters, Stephanie (Mike) Hastings of Franklin, KY and Vicki “DeeDee” (Greg) Hudson of Brownsville, KY; his sons, Chad (Kayla) May of Byesville, OH and Gabriel May (Katie) of Lexington, KY; his brother, Bobby (DeAnna) May of Franklin, KY; his cherished grandchildren who adored and knew him as their Poppy, Josh (Erika) Hastings, Mick (Katelan) Hastings, Brandon (Mindy) Hesson, Tristan (Emily) May, Sadie (Matt) Hesson, Destiny May, Ross Hudson, Allison (Trace) Lacy, Lucian May (Lauren), Ethan May, and Shelby Hudson; as well as several cherished great-grandchildren and special friends.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation in Wayne's memory on Friday, July 17, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. A funeral service to honor Wayne will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the funeral home with interment to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, KY.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Wayne's memory may be made to Cedar Grove Baptist Church Missions, 2944 Rapids Road, Franklin, KY 42134. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. For more information or to express condolences, please visit www.gilbertfhonline.com, check the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. Facebook page, or call the obituary phone line at 270-586-8844.