Dr. Jack G. Mays

Dr. Jack G. Mays, 87, of Louisville, Tennessee, passed away Sunday, May 3, 2015 peacefully with close family and friends by his side. Jack was born June 18, 1927 in Jackson, Tennessee to Ernest and Nina Mays. He graduated from Milan High School, Bethel University, Peabody College, and received his Doctorate from The University of Tennessee. Jack was proud to be a dual sport athlete in both football and basketball at Bethel University. Before and in between colleges/professions, Jack spent 42 years of military service with the United States Navy. Captain Jack Mays began service at the end of World War II, toured in the Korean War, and could proudly still fit into his uniform throughout his entire life. Jack's professional career included school Principal, Coach, State Director of School Guidance, and Vice-Chancellor of University of Tennessee-Martin. After retirement from his educational career, he and his wife Joyce moved to Gatlinburg, Tennessee to operate or open several business ventures. These businesses included The Opryland Show, multiple gift shops, the Smoky Mountain Winery and The Cellar. He was particularly proud of involvement with the Winery as it was the first winery in the State of Tennessee founded in 1981. In between these achievements Jack enjoyed boating, golfing, watching any type of UT sport, painting and watching his family grow. Jack is survived by his wife Joyce, children Steve (Nan), Denise (Bill), Greg (Amber), Jon (Stephanie), and seven grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, mother, brother, and sister. A celebration service will held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, May 10 at Middlesettlements United Methodist Church located at 2729 Middlesettlements Rd, Maryville, TN 37801. Visitation will be at 1 pm prior to services. Memorials may be made to Gatlinburg-Pittman High School-attn. Jack and Joyce Mays Scholarship Fund or Middlesettlements United Methodist Church. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithLifeandLegacy.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dr. Jack G. Mays please visit our Sympathy Store.