Ralph L. Mays' Obituary
Ralph L. Mays, 77, of Clinton peacefully passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025 at his home
surrounded by his loving family.
Memorial Services will be 2:00 pm, Friday, May 23, 2025 at Kingdom Hall in Clinton. Visitation
will be from 12:00 to 2:00 pm at the Hall. Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory assisted the
family.
Ralph Lee Mays was born March 12, 1948 in Clinton, Iowa, the son of George and Olive (Libby)
Mays. He was a Clinton High School graduate and earned his associate’s degree from Scott
Community College. He worked at Lyondell and then later retired from ADM.
He was a member of Kingdom Hall in Clinton, had a strong faith and loved music. He enjoyed
spending time with his family. Ralph was a talented guitar player and was a member of “The
Union Jacks” band which was a popular local band in the 1960’s. He and his four band
members were inducted into the Iowa Rock & Roll Hall of fame in 2006.
Ralph will be remembered for sharing his love of music with his three sons. He enjoyed reading
and learning and always did research before making any decision. A lover of ice cream, Ralph’s
final meal was a hot fudge sundae which he frequently requested in his last months. Those who
knew Ralph will remember him as a kind, thoughtful, and quiet man who would help anyone in
need.
Ralph married Brenda in 1973 and together they had three children. He is survived by two
children: Bryan (Sarah) Mays of Port Byron, Illinois and Brent Mays of Clinton; three
grandchildren: Alexis, Avery and Lennon and one brother: George (Mary Lou) Mays of Chicago,
Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Bruce Mays and sister Rita Reed
What’s your fondest memory of Ralph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ralph?
Share a story where Ralph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ralph you’ll never forget.
How did Ralph make you smile?