Berton Mays

Berton Mays, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 79 years old.

Berton was born on July 24, 1945, in Manchester, Kentucky, to Claude and Catherine Mays. He was a proud Vietnam veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1963 to 1968, an experience that shaped his character and sense of duty throughout his life. After his military service, Berton settled in Indianapolis, where he made his home and built a legacy of love and kindness.

On February 14, 1969, Berton married the love of his life, Martha Elizabeth Mays. Together, they shared a marriage filled with deep love, unwavering commitment, and many years of joyful memories. Their partnership was a true testament to the strength of love, and Martha stood by his side until the end.

Berton had a deep affection for all of God's creatures. He found joy in caring for the animals that graced his life, from squirrels and birds to cats and dogs. He always made sure the squirrels had plenty of nuts to keep them away from the birds and their food. His garden was a sanctuary for flowers, and he dedicated countless hours to nurturing his plants and animals, finding peace in nature's simple gifts. But above all, Berton’s greatest love was for his family. He took immense pride in being a devoted husband, father and grandfather, always making time for his loved ones and offering support, guidance, and a listening ear.

Berton’s gentle spirit, his unwavering kindness, and his ability to make everyone feel like family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout the years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Martha; children, Lisa Eldridge (Roy) of Manchester, KY, Teresa Brandenburg of Newport, KY, John Russell Mays of Indianapolis, IN, Berton Shawn Mays of Indianapolis, IN, Blake Mays of Indianapolis, IN, and Kyle Mays of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Veronica Howard (J.J.), Nicole House, Kenzie Brandenburg, Jared Mays, Julie Mays, Madison Brandenburg, Collin Jean Mays, Adonis Mays and Camden Mays; great-grandson, Ace Howard; siblings, Edith Mays and John L. Mays; and a host of family and friends who will remember him with fondness and gratitude.

He was reunited in heaven with his parents, Claude and Catherine Mays, and his siblings, Charles Mays, Esther Mays, and Betty Jean Long.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 4PM-8PM at Flanner Buchanan—Memorial Park, 9350 E. Washington St. Indianapolis, IN, 46229. Additional visitation will be held the following day at 1PM, with a funeral beginning at 2PM. 

Bert will be laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Military Honor Guard in his memory. Donations may be made here.