Doris G. Mays

Doris Gearline Mays, age 90, passed away peacefully at home on April 15, 2025, in Burlington, KY. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Neal Odean Mays, who passed just one week earlier on April 8, 2025. After nearly seven decades side by side, their enduring love and lifelong partnership remain an inspiring legacy to their family. They are now reunited, hand in hand, as they were in life.

Born to Dennis and Viola Dozier on January 13, 1935, in Kettle Island, KY, Doris was a woman whose every word and action came from a place of deep love and loyalty. 

She is survived by her children, Sandra Bilton and James Mays; her grandchildren, Alia Sand, Mitra Gripshover, Shayda Moradian, and Cody Mays; and four great-grandchildren, who each knew the unmatched love of their Mamaw.

As a career hairdresser, Doris co-owned the Florence Hairstyling Academy, where she utilized her talents as a cosmetologist to teach her students how to tap into their artistic ability in helping others find their own beauty and self-confidence. After retirement, her ambitious and creative spirit continued with the crafting of beautiful wedding cakes and flower arrangements displayed and enjoyed throughout the Northern Kentucky region.

Her graceful hands were rarely idle. Her heirloom-quality quilted and crocheted creations will be treasured for years to come, but her greatest masterpiece was the life she built alongside Neal, creating a home filled with warmth and stability.

Scripture tells us in 1 Peter 4:8, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” Doris’s life was a testament to this passage. She could be strong as iron and soft as lace, with opinions, convictions, and the voice to express them. Her strength was a gift she used to fiercely guide and protect her family through every chapter of life.

Doris leaves behind more than memories. Her legacy lives on in every stitch sewn, in every recipe shared, and in every heart she touched. Her voice, hands, and fire will be missed beyond measure, and she will be remembered with the kind of love that never fades.

A private graveside service will begin at 2 pm on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Brafford Cemetery, Arkle Rd, Gray, KY.

In celebrating Doris's life, let us remember her as the courageous and resilient woman she was. We invite all who knew and loved Doris to share the memories and photos that capture her spirit on her memorial page. Let us continue to honor her legacy by living with the same ambition and talent that she demonstrated throughout her life.