Ms. Janet Mays

Janet Sue Mays, 64, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on June 19, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born February 12, 1961, to Virgie and Mitchell Moore, Janet was a radiant presence in every life she touched. She was preceded in death by her father and her brothers Mark Moore, Jeffery Moore, and Michael Moore.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 34 years, Clarence Mays, Jr., whom she loved dearly and with whom she built a beautiful life founded on love, faith, and commitment.

Janet leaves behind her loving children: only son Arnez Mays, and daughters Stacy Black, Chasity Joy, and Kiara Young. She was a proud and nurturing grandmother to Aizlyn Mays, Shakya Watson, Keyasiah Jefferson, Malaysia Stover, Jianna Stover, Pierre Stover Jr., and Zayden Walker. She also leaves behind great grandchildren Dae’Arri Eaton and Ge’lah Eaton.

She is also survived by her beloved mother Virgie Moore, her brother Archie Moore, nieces Sierra Daniels and Dacia Moore, and great-nieces and great-nephews Daleece Moore, Tylan Vance, Amelia Daniels, and Eric Daniels Jr. Additional surviving family includes her sister-in-laws Joyce Secrest, Linda Mays, and Laura Mays; brother-in-laws Larry Mays and Rolland Mays; sister-cousins Aletha Thomas, Valerie Dabney, and Sabrina Hulbert; and her best friend of 55 years, Blondel Buford. She also shared a close bond of faith and friendship with her dear friend Carolyn Lash. Janet leaves behind a host of cousins, extended family, and cherished friends who will miss her deeply.

Janet dedicated 38 years of service to Continental Tire, where everyone knew her for her bright, cheery, and loving nature as well as her dependability and strong work ethic. Away from work, she took great pride in keeping her yard immaculate — she loved spending time outside and perfecting every detail with care. She also loved to dance and was the life of the party wherever she went.

A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Janet was a lifelong member of Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church. She was active for over 25 years leading the Children’s Church Ministry, singing in the choir, and leading Sunday devotion with a voice as beautiful as her soul. Janet had a special gift for teaching children and embraced every opportunity to guide and encourage them.

Never one to shy away from learning or trying new things, Janet brought passion to all she did. In 1999, she was named 1st Runner-Up in the Mrs. Illinois Pageant — a reflection of her beauty, grace, and inner strength. Her gentle spirit and nurturing heart will forever live on in those who loved her. Janet will be remembered for her selfless devotion to her family, her church, and her community.

She is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her, and her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire all who knew her.