Elton Keith Mayes

Elton Mayes knew how to fill a room with laughter. Even in his last few years he never lost his sense of humor. He had an incredible love for his friends and family. He was born March 19, 1938 in his grandmother’s house in Houston, Texas. He died surrounded by his loved ones November 11, 2023 in Kingwood, Texas.

Elton was preceded in death by his mother Ruth Mayes, his father Myron Mayes, his sister Myra Lee West, his daughter Candace Elaine, and his son Larry James. He is survived by his wife of forty-seven and a half years, Frances Eason Mayes, his brother James Mayes and wife Zetta, his sister Patricia Chevalier and husband Michael, his daughters Catherine Rene and Carolyn Jeanette, his daughter Camilia Allene, his son Thearl Nathaniel, his son Joseph Elton and wife Penny, and the two “apples of his eye”, his granddaughters Rowan Evylie and Jonah Noel, as well as many other nieces, nephews, grandchildren, family and friends.

Elton held many occupations over his life in addition to being an ordained minister.  He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in Korea. He retired from the United States Postal Service after 37 and a half years, having carried mail all over Houston and worked in Liberty and Crosby as the assistant Postmaster. He spent his “retirement” earning a degree and becoming a real estate agent, working with Century 21 Life Changers for many years. 

Elton was a devout Christian. He was a student of God’s word and committed his life to teaching others about the Gospel. He led the OASIS group at Crosby Church for 20+ years alongside his wife, Fran. He enjoyed singing in the choir and playing his guitar. Anyone who knew Elton knew that he loved to serve and praise the Lord.

Elton loved writing. He wrote many poems and songs throughout his life and started writing a novel before his death. He loved to fish with Fran and the children. He spent many hours working in the garden, maintaining his vegetables, and tending his lawn. He enjoyed his time as “Clem” in the Crosby Opry. He was a real cut-up and enjoyed playing pranks on his loved ones. 

Saturdays are for aggravating according to his son Joseph, who has a very similar temperament. The stories of his shenanigans are a legacy that will not soon be forgotten. He loved to eat salmon patties, hot water cornbread, and anything sweet.  On a good day his little sister Patti made him mincemeat pie.  Most of all he loved to spend time with his family-church family included. 

Fran would like to give a special thanks to Joseph, Penny, and the girls for all they have done. Also, thank you to very good friends, Bill and Deb Roberts, for their continued love and support and to the many friends who’ve helped so much over the last few years.

Services will be held at Crosby Church under the direction of Pace-Stancil Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors on Saturday, November 18th at 9a.m. The funeral service will begin at 10a.m., interment to follow, with military honors, at Magnolia Park Cemetery in Dayton.