May Thomas of Roanoke, Virginia, flew away to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, with her loving daughter by her side. She was surrounded by her loving family throughout the day.

May was born on May 7, 1952, and was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Chattin; her parents, Curtis and Ruth Thomas; foster mother, June Reed; great-grandson, Aiden Okerman; and brother, Carlton Thomas.

She is survived by her daughter, April (Jay) Tayloe; grandchildren, Emily Okerman and Ryan (Bayli Price) Benson; great-grandchildren, Aryan, Loki and Bryah; two sisters, Pat and Ginger Quinn; a niece; three nephews; and special men, Rick Benson and Gabe Okerman.

May worked at Hollins University for 27 years . She held many different titles and retired in 2013 as Director of Facilities. May loved cooking for and spending time with her family, trips to the Outer Banks, reading a good book with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and shopping.

The family would like to thank the caregivers who stayed with May, her South Roanoke Nursing Home family and the Good Shepherd Hospice team for providing outstanding care to “MeKeeKee.”

Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, January 9, 2023, at Oakey’s North Chapel. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.  

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Write love on your arms! https://twloha.com.