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Ponca City, Oklahoma
Ponca City Monthly
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Obituary

Ronald Mays

May 8, 1945 – September 5, 2026

Ronald Mays

Ronald A. Mays passed away on September 5, 2026 in Kaw City. A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026 in Garber Cemetery at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory, 505 W Grand Ave, Ponca City, OK 74601.

Ron was born on May 8th, 1945 in Greeley, Colorado to Walls and Lucille Mays. He grew up in Fairview, Oklahoma. Ron was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving a tour there and rising to the rank of Sergeant in the U.S. Army. He worked as a carpenter and loved working with his hands. Ron attended school in Fairview and had many lifelong friends there. He and his brothers Robert, Steve and Bill and sister Yvonne shared many happy times as a family in the community. They started working at a young age in their family restaurant the Deluxe Cafe in the middle of downtown Fairview. Ron grew up around the people of the community and never knew a stranger. He was always ready to sit down and visit. If there was not a party taking place, Ron would make one.

He married Caroline Polifka of Garber, Oklahoma in January of 1972. Together they had three children, Chad, Cody, and Cari Mays.The family lived on the family farm near Garber for many years before moving to a home in Garber. Ron and his family participated in the school and community activities.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Robert and Steven and his daughter Cari Mays. He is survived by his wife, Caroline Mays; 2 sons, Chad Mays and Cody Mays; brother, Bill Mays; sister, Yvonne Pollard; and many great friends. We know that Ron is with Cari and his family now. His smile and his jokes will be missed by all of us who knew him. We loved him and his memory will always be with us. Go with God Ron.

He will be missed. God bless you Ron.

Services

Interment Funeral: Garber Cemetery

Funeral Home: Trout Funeral Home & Crematory