Vera L. (Myers) May

Leetonia - Vera Loretta May, 97, died Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by family.

Vera was born on August 11, 1927, in Irondale, Ohio, the daughter of the late Joseph C. and Margaret (Wright) Myers.

A graduate of Salineville High School, Vera married William G. May on November 4, 1944, and became a dedicated wife, mother, and homemaker. Together, they nurtured a large and bustling household, welcoming nine children into the world. The couple celebrated two decades of marriage before William's untimely passing in 1964. Vera, embodying courage and determination, continued to raise her children with grace and devotion as a single parent. Vera's work ethic extended beyond the walls of her home as she entered the workforce once her children were school-aged. She dedicated 11 years of service as a sales clerk at Hills Department Store, retiring at the age of 62.

Leisure time for Vera was spent reveling in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid swimmer, often found making ripples in the local lakes and pools. She had a great love for the outdoors and enjoyed frequent walks in Beaver Creek, where she admired nature's beauty. Vera was also a wonderful cook and baker. She planted a bountiful garden annually, canning the fruits of her labor to sustain her family year-round. The scent of her homemade bread, which she baked every other day, still lingers as a warm memory for her children.

Vera's heart was most full when her home buzzed with the laughter and chatter of her family. Known affectionately as "Grandma May," nothing brought her more joy than when the family was all together. Countless treasured memories were made at picnics, gatherings, and game nights, where games like Dominos, Phase 10, Farkle, and Scrabble ignited friendly competition.

A woman of strong faith, Vera was a longtime member of the Hanoverton Church of Christ.

Vera leaves to carry on her memory, her children, William (Marlene) May, James May, Richard May, Gloria Prather, Donald (Debbie) May, Terrance (Betty) May, Cathy (Ronald) Stratton, and Steven May; sisters, Margaret Jean Hazen, Shirley Fox, Joann Kapalka, and Janet Lowes; 21 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Vera was preceded in death by her son, Thomas May; siblings, Lloyd Myers, Lois Mazzei, Keith Myers, Edith Spears, and James Myers, and her granddaughter, Shelly Raynes.

Family and friends will be received from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1014 E. State St., Salem. Private burial will take place on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Grandview Cemetery in Sebring.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Vera's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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