Betty Faye Mayes

Betty Faye Mayes, passed away on October 17, 2026, at the age of 86. She was born on July 30, 1940, in Pocahontas, Tennessee, and will be remembered with love for the life she built, the family she cherished, and the quiet joys that meant so much to her.

Betty was a retired retail clerk whose working years included Kays Bakery, Fred Montesi Supermarket, and Wonder Bread all in Memphis, Tennessee. She brought dedication to her work and, beyond her career, found her greatest happiness in the simple and beautiful parts of life. She enjoyed hummingbirds, flowers, and working in the garden. She also especially loved watching her grandson Brad race sprint cars, and took great joy in seeing her  grandson jon and great-grandson Wyatt race go-karts.

Above all, Betty’s life was centered on family. She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Pat Bowden (Jim), Donna Proctor, Sandra Gilbert (John), and Brenda Reed (Scotty). She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Brad Bowden (Kym), Jonathan Proctor (Taylor), Monica Barnes, Cody Gilbert, Kristen Kunda (Rich), Jenna Gilbert (Ronald), Brittany Bailey (Corey), Brooke Buchanan (Zach), and Kaylee Reed as well as (18) great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Sadie Harper and her husband Milton. In addition to her close family, Betty leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will remember her with affection.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon Mayes; her father, Arthur Doles; her mother, Mary Pickard; and her brother, John Doles. Their memories remained part of her life and story, and she now rests with those who went before her.

A graveside service will be held on October 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Hill Memorial Park - South, 2545 E. Holmes Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38118.

Betty Faye Mayes will be remembered for her love of family, her enjoyment of life’s gentle pleasures, and the warmth she shared with those around her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.