John Eddie (Jr.) May

Mr. John Eddie May Jr. 76, of Hollidaysburg, PA, departed this life on August 31, 2023, at Altoona Hospital, Altoona, PA, after a period of declining health.  John was born on November 8, 1946, to his late parents John Eddie May Sr, and Rebecca Thompkins May at McKeesport Hospital, McKeesport, PA.  

John, at a young age, joined Morning Star Baptist Church during the tenure of Rev. Joseph McCoy.  He attended school at Clairton High School, and upon graduation joined the United States Army where he attended the Wheel and Mechanic School at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.  During his overseas deployment, he was decorated with the National Defense Service Metal and the Marksman Rifle Badge.  John was honorably discharged in 1969.

After his discharge from the military, he followed his passion for social action while living in Pittsburgh.  He was lovingly called the “Foot Soldier” for his dedicated work with Pittsburgh’s NAACP and other community activities, which earned him covenant recognition in the Pittsburgh area.

John enjoyed traveling, singing, and listening to oldies, but he mostly enjoyed spending time with his family and looked forward to visiting them during the holidays.  He was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan (especially the Steelers and Pirates) and was looking forward to the promising 2023 NFL season.  With his pleasant disposition and smile, he was a joy to be around, and he will be missed by his family and friends.

Along with his parents, John is pre-deceased by a sister, Mary Emma May, Aunt Lucille Taulton, Cousin Betty Thompkins-Johns, and Brother-in-law, SGM Charles A. Roberts.  He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted sister Joyce May Roberts, brother Charles L. May, youngest sister Carolyn May McDougald, plus nephews, Darrell J. Roberts, Donald C. Roberts, Marland R.May, DaShawn McDougald, Shannon McDougald, Pedro May, Tuan Bain, niece Shayla McDougald, great nieces Marlonna May, Jaismane Niacaris,  Shawmonique McDougald, Zion Wanzo May, great nephew Donald C. Roberts ii, a devoted cousin, Beverly Smith, his Omaha Family, and many friends.

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