Kenneth Ray “Buddy” Mays, age 82, of Salem, Ala., died Aug. 2, 2011, at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika.

He was born February 22, 1929, in Walker County, Alabama to the late B.B. and Annie Lee Mays.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Carolyn, Juanita, and his twin sister, Faye.

He graduated from Aliceville High School and retired from James River Paper Corporation after 31 years as a pipefitter. He lived in Demopolis, Ala. prior to moving to Phenix City. He lived in West Union, S.C. for the past four years prior to moving back to Salem.

An avid Auburn University football fan, Buddy was extremely proud of the 2011 National Championship. Buddy lived the life of a Christian and was a deacon for many years. He also served as an Elder in the Church of Christ for 30 years.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Emmie Alexander Mays of Salem, Ala.; children, Ken Mays (Paula) of Demopolis, Ala., Polly Fountain (Terry) of West Union, S.C., and Gayle Mays of Springville, Ala.; grandchildren, Julie Warren (J.B.) of Demopolis, Ala., Sandy Yelverton (John) of Tuscaloosa, Ala., Kenneth Mays (Courtney) of Huntsville, Ala., Dannielle Thornton and Jessica Mays, both of Demopolis, Ala., Emily Rayanne Endfinger of West Union, S.C., and Kenneth Alexander Endfinger; great-grandchildren, Kendal Michelle Warren and Lilly Michelle Mays; brothers, Mickey Mays (Margie) and Mike Mays (Reba); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

At Buddy’s request, he was cremated in Opelika, Ala.

Memorial services was Aug. 7, 2011, at Phenix City Church of Christ immediately following morning worship services. Larry Vaughan, family friend and minister of Phenix City Church of Christ, will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of one’s choice.