The family will receive friends Sunday, October 17, 3:00 PM until 5:00 P.M. at Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home- Riggins Road Chapel. The funeral service will be Monday, October 18, at 1 :30 P.M. at Killearn United Methodist Church with the Rev. Gene Strickland officiating. There will be another celebration of David's life to be planned in the near future.
David was born and raised in Tallahassee, Florida, the grandson of two prominent pioneer Florida families where his roots ran deep into the Madison and Chaires communities. He graduated from Florida High School in 1977 and Florida State University in 1982. David was the second FSU student to be selected to portray FSU's "Chief Osceola" from 1980-1981. David captivated FSU fans as the rider of "Renegade", displaying his natural and fearless skills as an accomplished horseman. David was always so proud to have this opportunity to represent FSU and be part of the FSU Renegade Team. He opened Gold's Gym in 1986 and was well-known among the body-building community in north Florida. In 2002, David formed Sun Belt Agricultural Consultants and Real Estate Services. David's greatest accomplishment was becoming the father of Dakota Strano Mays.
David will always be remembered for his infectious smile and wonderful sense of humor. Although big in stature he was a gentle horse with a heart full of love for his friends and family.
He is survived by his son Dakota Strano Mays; and his two brothers; Dannitte H. Mays IV and wife Sandy; and George A. Mays, and his niece; Ashten Mays.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; Kitty Chaires Mays and Dannitte H. Mays, III, and his beloved sister, Mandy Mays.
Arrangements are under the direction of Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, Tallahassee, FL.
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