Billy Junior May
Billy Junior May, 82, a native and long time resident of Marion, died Feb. 3, 2003, at the Kansas Soldiers Home, Fort Dodge, where he had resided for several years.
Born Feb. 2, 1921, at Marion, he was the son of the late William and Bessie (Slifer) May. He grew up in Marion, attended school, and went away to war by enlisting in the Army in December of 1940 and serving until September of 1945.
He was a life member of Ecker-Fulkerson-Slifer Post 6958, Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Following his military service, he worked for the Kansas Highway Department, then Riddle Quarries and Hallett Quarry where he was scale operator. He was well known in the community and by those he served at the quarry.
He was well known as an expert fisherman. He shared his knowledge of that sport with others, especially young people, and enjoy fishing all his life. He also fixed reels and other fishing equipment for others.
He was well known at the lakes, especially the heating fishing dock at Marion County Lake.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Wilma Jane May; a niece and a nephew. Survivors include his sister Betty Holtsclaw of Wichita, five nieces, and seven nephews.
Services were held Friday at Zeiner Funeral Home in Marion with the Rev. Larry Timm officiating.
Shirley Bowers was the organist and Bennie Holtsclaw, a nephew, sang "There's a New Star up in Heaven" and "Just a Closer Walk with Thee."
Casket bearers were Bennie Holtsclaw, Keith Holtsclaw, Darrell Holtsclaw, David Holtsclaw, Rick Holtsclaw, and Daryl Klassen.
Burial was in Marion Cemetery with military honors provided by the funeral detail from Fort Riley.
A memorial fund has been established in his name with the Marion VFW and Auxiliary.
