James Calvin May

James Calvin May, affectionately known as Jim, was born on January 25, 1951, in Carbondale, Illinois to Levonia and Howard May.

Jim graduated from Marion High School in Marion, Illinois, before earning his bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University. He began his career as a middle school mathematics teacher in Carrier Mills, Illinois. Returning to Southern Illinois University to pursue a master's degree in computer science, Jim met the love of his life, Debbie. They were married on September 3, 1977.

Shortly after their marriage, Jim and Debbie moved to Texas, where he began his career with Texas Instruments. Over more than 30 years of service, Jim rose to the position of Distinguished Member of Technical Staff, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout his career.

Jim was a lifetime fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and made many trips to Busch Stadium to see his beloved Cardinals play. He loved to bicycle and often spent time riding for both exercise and enjoyment, appreciating the outdoors and the sense of freedom it brought him. He also was an avid golfer and enjoyed running and playing softball with the IEX Iguanas. He ran the Houston Marathon and cycled in many Hotter ‘N Hell Hundred events.

Following his retirement from Texas Instruments, Jim returned to one of his lifelong passions: teaching. He taught mathematics at Collin College, where he enjoyed helping students build confidence and succeed. He also volunteered as a math tutor through Agape Resource Center, generously sharing his knowledge and encouraging countless individuals along the way.

In 2013, Jim and Debbie embarked on a new adventure, moving to London, England, for two years. During that time, Jim enjoyed one of his favorite pastimes—golfing more frequently—and cherished the opportunity to travel throughout Europe with his family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. He enjoyed being a tour guide for visiting family and friends.

A devoted man of faith, Jim was a longtime member of Custer Road United Methodist Church in Plano, Texas, where he loved serving as a member of Jazz INC and the brass ensemble. He was involved in missions, volunteered with Bed Start and was a faithful blood donor.

Above all else, Jim cherished his family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in supporting his children, Laura and Brian, throughout their soccer, basketball, softball, baseball and band careers. He often served as their coach and was always their biggest fan. He especially treasured time spent with his grandson, Jackson.

For three years, Jim fought his brain cancer with courage, grace and the same determination that characterized his life. Jim passed away on June 10, 2026.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Debbie (Anderson) May; his daughter, Laura (May) Morgan; his son, Brian May; and his cherished grandson, Jackson Morgan. He is also survived by cousins, nieces and other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Levonia May.

Jim's kindness, wisdom, generosity, and unwavering love for his family left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Whether in the classroom, on the golf course, at church, cheering from the sidelines, or rooting for the Cardinals, he lived a life dedicated to learning, service, and the people he loved. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Jim at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 10, 2026, at Custer Road United Methodist Church in Plano, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations may be made to the following organizations that were close to his heart:

Agape Resource & Assistance Center PO Box 861664 Plano, TX 75086-1664

Donte- AGAPE- Resource & Assistance Center

Or

Head for the Cure (Fight against Brain Cancer)

https://impact.headforthecure.org/fundraiser/7358503