Mary Ellen May

Mary Ellen May, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, in her Zionsville home at the age of 101. She was born on September 7, 1921, in Cayuga, IN to the late Sylvia (Nash) Jones and Thomas H. Jones. Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Bernard E. May, Sr, a loving son, Thomas Charles May, and a beloved grandson, Jeffrey Charles May.
She attended Indiana State, then later completed a program in Early Childhood Education at IUPUI. She became a Pre-School teacher for over 30 years, where she impacted countless young lives. After her retirement, her love for books and libraries encouraged her to serve as a part time Headstart Librarian for many years.
Mary Ellen volunteered for several years as a Sunday schoolteacher at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church. As a Tab deaconess, Mary Ellen devotedly served her church, seeing to the needs of its members. Along with another Tab member, she also delivered meals for the Meals on Wheels Program.
Mary Ellen also served the local community through her involvement with the Highland Kessler Garden Club. She served as a past president and helped to shape the club’s activities and events for many years. As an Oasis Tutor, Mary Ellen dedicated her afternoons assisting elementary school students with their reading and writing skills.
Mary Ellen will always be remembered for her sweet, caring nature and compassion for others. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and the many individuals whose lives she impacted.
She is survived by her loving children, Bernard E. May, Jr and Janie (May) Parr; grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a host of family and friends.
A celebration of Mary Ellen’s life will take place at 2pm on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, 418 East 34th Street, Indianapolis, with a memorial gathering from 1-2pm. Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Mary Ellen at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church.
Arrangements entrusted to Flanner Buchanan-Washington Park North