MILLINGTON – A lifelong Millington resident, Mr. Argus Maine “J.R.” Mays, Jr., age 81, our dedicated, supportive, kind, and proud father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at his home.

J.R. was born on October 18, 1944, in Flint, Michigan, to Argus Sr. and Edith (Blevins) Mays. He was raised alongside his brothers Joe, Chuck, and Barry, and graduated from Millington High School with the class of 1962. He spent most of his career with General Motors in their paint department, eventually retiring as a consultant. Afterwards, he began to drive with Mitchell Motorcoach, a position he greatly enjoyed. Always one to give back to the community, he previously served on the Millington School Board. J.R. was an avid fan of sports and especially the Millington High School Cardinals. One could often find him in the stands at football, basketball, baseball, and softball games. He enjoyed following the Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Tigers, Lions, Pistons, and Red Wings and recently found interest in Olympic curling. J.R. also found joy in reading military history, keeping up with current events, listening to old country music, and playing a good game of euchre. He liked to golf and spend time in Shady Valley, TN. Above all, J.R. was a family man and the time spent with them was his greatest joy.

He is survived by his sons: Argus Mays III, Jayson (Jennifer) Mays, and Matthew Mays; grandchildren, Avery Mays and Nico Mays; brothers, Charles “Chuck” Mays, and Barry (Ruth) Mays; sister-in-law, Shirley Mays; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

J.R. is reunited with his parents, Argus Sr. and Edith Mays; brother, Joe Mays; and nephew, Troy Mays.

J.R.’s family will welcome visitors to Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Funeral services will follow at the funeral home at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, February 25, 2026; additional visitation from 11:00 AM until the time of service. Interment to follow in Millington Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Millington High School Athletic Association.

Kindly share a memory with the Mays family in the guestbook below.

J.R. and his family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home - Millington. Address: 4823 Main Street, Millington, MI 48746. Phone (989) 871-4591.

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