Teresa Mays

Teresa Mays, 64, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, at The Brickyard in Kokomo, Indiana.

Teresa was born on September 15, 1961, in Tipton, Indiana, to Billy and Betty (Lange) Mays. She attended Tipton High School and spent her life rooted in the community she proudly called home.

Teresa will be remembered most for her warm and friendly nature. She had an easy smile that she shared freely with friends and strangers alike, along with a sassy spirit that never failed to bring a smile to those around her. That spark—equal parts kindness and spunk—was one of her most endearing qualities.

In her later years, Teresa cherished the time she spent with her brother, Kenny Mays. Together, they worked on crossword puzzles and played Bingo each day, sharing laughter and companionship. They were not only siblings but best friends, and their bond was truly special. It brings comfort to imagine their joyful reunion in Heaven.

The following poem was written in loving memory of Teresa by her dear friend, Gabby Anderson:

Poem for My Sweet Friend

I didn’t know you long,
yet somehow it was enough
to leave a forever-shaped space in my heart.
Every time I walked through those doors,
down that long, quiet hall,
there you were—
sitting in the dining room,
your smile already waiting for me,
the brightest thing in the building.

I'm glad we got the time we did, but it went too fast, like losing you.
Visits measured in moments,
but filled with meaning.
You mattered more to me
than you ever knew.

I dreamed of taking you for a drive,
just you and me,
fresh air, moving roads,
freedom beyond those walls.
But instead, we shared what we could—
bingo cards, crosswords,
freshly painted nails,
and laughter tucked into ordinary days.

You were loved there.
By friends who will miss your seat,
your voice, your presence.
Loved by all of us
who only had to meet you once
to feel it.

I’m thankful for our last hug,
for the warmth of your hand in mine,
for the words I love you
spoken softly and meant completely.

Now you are at peace,
with your family,
held by heaven in a way
no place on earth ever could.

I’m grateful for the short time we had,
for the light you gave so freely,
for the way you smiled at me
like we were family… and we are.
ALL God’s family.

Goodbye, sweet friend.
You will always be remembered.

— Gabby Anderson

Those left to cherish Teresa’s memory include several cousins, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by her gentle heart and friendly spirit.

Teresa was welcomed into Heaven by her parents, Billy and Betty Mays, and her beloved brother, Kenny Mays.

A graveside service celebrating Teresa’s life will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery, 418 Fairview Drive, Tipton.

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Mays family during this time. Online condolences and shared memories may be left on Teresa’s tribute wall.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Teresa Mays, please visit our floral store.