Pless May

Pless May was born in Macon Mississippi on November 11, 1940 to Mr. and Mrs. Mason May and along with his 13 siblings, he was later raised in Marked Tree, Arkansas. At an early age Pless confessed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

May 25, 1960 Pless graduated from Carver High School and later attended Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical, and Normal College (AM&N) known now as University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff (UAPB). He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and Mathematics. He would later go on to continue his education obtaining a Master’s Degree in Business Management from Webster University, and Master’s Degree in Special Education from Fontbonne University.

In 1963, Pless and Ruby Jewel Thornton were wedded in Holy Matrimony. In 1965, with the encouragement of their loved ones, the newlyweds moved their growing family to Saint Louis, MO to
build a life of their own. Pless was known for his many talents, ranging from Math Scholar to Handy Man. But his passion was and remained Education. For more than 20 years, Pless taught secondary students in St. Louis Public Schools – Special Education Programs. He was devoted to teaching and encouraging his students to seek more than what society believed that they were capable. His students will go on to remember the challenges and care “Mr. May” offered as a pinnacle part of their education. Pless remained a cherished educator until he retired in 2015.
Pless departed this earth peacefully October 13, 2024. He leaves to cherish his memory; his wife, Jewel. His children, Wanda Elaine May, Stephanie Denise Harvey (Alfred), Pless Orlando May (Teri), Garnet Patton (Devin), Kwasi May (Shaddaiyah), 12 Grandchildren, and 8 Great-grandchildren. Brothers: Paul May (Dorothy), Andrew May (Claudette), Bruce May (Robin), Sister-in-Law Eva May and a, Aunt Joyce Brown. As well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

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