James Clifford May

James May, 86, of Orange City, Florida, passed away on March 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, culinary expertise, and a wonderful sense of humor. Born on June 20, 1937, in Lafayette, Indiana, he was the cherished son of the late Paul and Vera May.

After proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force, James embarked on a successful career as an executive chef, where his passion for food and creativity shone brightly. His culinary talents brought joy to countless individuals throughout his lifetime, and his knack for creating delicious meals was matched only by his ability to bring laughter into any room and ask for dessert before any meal.

On April 9, 1974, James married the love of his life, Laura May, and together they created a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

James leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory, including his beloved wife Laura May; two sons, Andrew Georgi and his wife Lisa of Hebron, Illinois, and Curt May and his wife Terry Lebaron of Ormond Beach, Florida; two daughters, Tammy May of Orange City, Florida, and Terri Cetera and her husband Greg Cetera of Daytona Beach, Florida. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Russell Loftis, AJ Georgi, Melanie Georgi, Peter May, Ashlynn Sanchez (Cetera) and husband Anthony Sanchez, and Makayla Cetera and fiancé Grant Delp; as well as one great-granddaughter, Lilliana May Sanchez. He is also survived by his dear sister, Sharon Beyers.

James was preceded in death by his brothers, Thomas May and Richard May, his sister Karen May, and his grandson, Georgi Loftis. Their memories will forever be cherished, and they will be deeply missed.

James May will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, culinary talents, and his ability to bring laughter into the lives of everyone he met. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and he will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, forever in our hearts.

A visitation for James will be held Tuesday, April 2, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Deltona Memorial Funeral Home, 1295 Saxon Blvd, Orange City, FL 32763. A committal service will occur Wednesday, April 3, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at CAPE CANAVERAL NATIONAL CEMETERY, 5525 US-1, Mims, FL 32754.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that donations be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting our nation's defenders, veterans, first responders, and their families. Your contribution will help provide vital assistance and resources to those who have sacrificed so much for our country. To donate, please visit https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate. Your generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit our website at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/orange-city-fl/james-may-11748008