James "Jim" Gerald May

James Gerald “Jim” May, 81, of Dawson, passed away Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Erlanger Medical Center. He was born in Albertville on January 12, 1945. His father, James Aubrey May, died in World War II before Jim was born. His mother married Emory Fox, who loved and raised Jim as his son. Jim graduated from University of Tennessee Chattanooga as an Industrial Engineer. He served as Vice President of Engineering at Astec Industries and President of Heatec, where he earned numerous patents and was known throughout the paving industry nationwide. His travel with his career took him to 48 states (missing only Idaho and Alaska), as well as many foreign countries, so much so that he was one of the first Million Mile Travelers with Delta in Chattanooga. He currently served as Board Member of Northeast Alabama Water Board. While accomplished in his professional career, his favorite title was Papa Bear to his grandchildren and their friends. He was once awarded winner in the “slow competition” on the old John Deer Johnny Popper. In his spare time, Jim repaired classic tractors all over North Alabama. After multiple attempts to fix classic cars and tractors, he often worked his “magic” by uttering an expletive and hitting the broken part in frustration, and like magic, it worked again! He was a licensed pilot. A memorial service is planned for 12 noon on Saturday, July 11th at Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory of Fort Payne (3801 Gault Ave. N., Fort Payne, AL). The family will receive friends from 10 am. until the 12 noon hour of service. The family is accepting flowers or memorial contributions may be made to Bread of Life, PO Box 680876, Fort Payne, AL 35968. He is survived by his children James Douglas May and Melissa May Peirano (David) and their mother Linda May; beloved grandchildren Sophia May Peirano and Dominic Michael Peirano; brothers David Fox and Gary Fox (Tammy); sister Jan Newsome (Bo); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Emory and Wilma Fox and sister Susan Butler. Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory of Fort Payne is in charge of arrangements.

James "Jim" Gerald May

January 12, 1945 - July 5, 2026