Paul Douglas Mays, known as Doug by those who loved him, and Papa Dean to his grandchildren, was born in Beattyville, Kentucky, on February 13, 1950 to Elmer and Blanche Mays and passed away on October 24, 2026 in Vanceburg, Kentucky at the age of 76. Doug was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Bethel Mays; brother, Raymond Mays; and his sisters, Raymonda Mays and Patricia Mays. He is survived by his brother Richard; his children: Travis (Trina) Mays, Vanessa (Ron) Courter, and Joseph (Leticia) Mays, along with his grandchildren: Jeremiah (Stacie) Mays, Kayla (Niles) Ludwig, Matthew (Crystal) Mays, Jacob Mays, Erica (Steven) Beatty, Alicia (Max) Werling, Ronnie (Kaylin) Courter, Elena Mays, and Benaiah Mays, along with numerous great-grandchildren. Doug loved his home state of Kentucky and Kentucky Wildcat basketball. He loved Skyline chili, Ale8, and Hostess Sno Balls. Throughout the many challenges he faced in his life, he endured, leaning on his faith as his strength. His faith was an integral part of his life, as he raised his children in church and served in various ministries in the church throughout the years. His faith impacted his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and is something for which they are forever grateful. While his family will miss him, they are so grateful for all of the memories they made with him, but most of all for his faith in his Savior Jesus.
Funeral services held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Booneville Funeral Home, with Pastor Barry Wilson officiating. Burial at the Shoemaker Cemetery in Beattyville, Kentucky. Booneville Funeral in charge of arrangements.
