Richard Lee May

MAY, RICHARD LEE - Of Zirconia, North Carolina, formerly of Jackson, Michigan, passed away on April 11, 2026 at Stonecreek Health and Rehabilitation in Asheville, NC at the age of 85. He was born October 16, 1940 in Chicago, IL to Roy C. and Martha M. May. His family moved to Jackson, MI where he attended Jackson Public Schools and Jackson Junior College. 

He was proceeded in death by his parents and his wife, Margaret (Crowle) May. 

He is survived by his brother, Roy (Dinah) May and four children; Sherri (Jim) Spring of Jackson, MI, Richard II (Weatherly) May of Asheville, NC, Michaellyn (Endre) Pasztor of Black Mountain, NC and Derek (Margie) May of Easley, SC, seven grandchildren; Jamie Craft, Justin May, Thomas and Jacob Reed, and Nicholas, Kyle and Sydney May and seven great grandchildren. 

Richard spent his career with various companies in manufacturing. He was transferred to North Carolina by Eaton Corporation in 1988 where he worked until his retirement. Richard was a dedicated family man, cherishing their annual trip to Ocean City, Maryland. He also had a passion for auto racing where he raced his Austin Healey in SCCA events on many tracks located in the Midwest and Southeast. His ultimate experience was competing on the road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2017. 

At his request, cremation has taken place. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor David Langston officiating, at Biltmore Church West Campus 509 Smokey Park Highway Candler, NC 28715. 

In lieu of flowers, friends who wish, may make memorial contributions in Richard’s memory can make them to Medi Home Hospice.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Richard's family.