James A. Mayes 1958-2025

Born on Jan. 9, 1958, in Flemington, New Jersey, Pastor Mayes dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel and living out the love of Christ in word and deed. He answered God’s call to ministry as a teenager and spent over 50 years in faithful service. He pastored several churches and served in missions work throughout his years, leading many souls to Christ. He touched countless lives through prayer, counsel, and unwavering faith. He was a true shepherd of hearts — wise, warm and wonderfully funny. He had a gift for connecting with people and lifting spirits with a smile and a perfectly timed joke.

Beyond the pulpit, Jim was a devoted husband, a loving father and a proud poppy to six grandchildren. The way he cherished his wife, Lynn, was a beautiful reflection of Christ’s love. His children and grandchildren were the joy of his heart. His legacy lives on through the lives of his family and the souls he touched through his ministry.

As Pastor Jim faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, he remained a faithful servant of the Lord. Though his body grew weaker, his spirit never dimmed. Even during his time at the nursing home, he continued his ministry by teaching and offering prayer and encouragement to fellow residents and staff. He served to the very end, and though our hearts grieve his passing, we rejoice in knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” The pain and limitations of this life have passed away, and Jim now walks, restored and renewed, in the presence of God. His faith has become sight and his joy is complete.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Lynn Mayes of Leavittsburg; two daughters, Karen Lynn (Jeffrey Allen) Stevens of Johnson City, Tennessee, and Jessica Allyn (Anthony) Lee of Kinsman; grandchildren, Samara Stevens, Nathan Stevens, Anna Lee, Cara Lee, Jordon Lee and Arabella Lee; and brothers, Robert Mayes of Warren and Steven (Susan) Mayes of Amherst.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra Krembrenk of North Carolina.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at First Community Church of Leavittsburg, where Pastor John Jaros will officiate.

Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Carl W. Hall Funeral Home.

James will be laid to rest in Crown Hill Burial Park in Vienna.

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30

Arrangements have been entrusted to Carl W. Hall Funeral Home.

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