Kenneth Andrew Maye

Kenneth “Kenny” Andrew Maye, 73, of Taylorsville, NC, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at his home. Born on April 24, 1952, in Saltville, VA, Kenny lived a life marked by joy, humility, and a deep love for his family and community.

A faithful member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church, Kenny lived out his faith daily not just in words, but in the way he served others with his hands and heart. He spent over 50 years working as a skilled carpenter, handyman, and horse farrier. Whether he was building something from the ground up or shoeing a horse, Kenny approached his work with excellence, dedication, and a servant’s heart. For more than two decades, he brought joy to children and adults alike as Santa Claus, sharing laughter and kindness everywhere he went.

Kenny proudly served in the Army Reserve for nine years. He was a lover of people, a problem-solver by nature, and a man who never met a stranger. Whether fishing with his little buddy Andrew or encouraging someone through a tough time, Kenny’s warmth and humor left a mark on every life he touched.

He faced numerous health challenges over the past year and experienced several miraculous recoveries, but through it all, he and his family rested in the sovereignty of God knowing that every breath and every moment is held in the hands of a faithful Creator.

Kenny is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 54 years, Ann Pennell Maye; his daughter Melissa Mays (Scott); his grandson who was more like a son, Andrew Sharpe (Lauren); his grandchildren Nick Maye, Dakota Honeycutt, Lexie Stewart (Justin), Caleb Mays, and his great-grandchildren Annaleigh Sharpe, Brody and Maggie Stewart.

He was preceded in death by his son, Micheal Maye; his parents, Dean and Helen Maye; his mother and father-in-law, Floyd and Mae Pennell; and brothers-in-law Dennis Pennell and David Pennell.

He is also survived by his siblings: Wanda Stafford (David), Kim Wooten (David), and Randy Maye; his sisters-in-law Shirley Clayborn (Randy); Sylvia Pennell; and many cherished nieces and nephews. Special mention is made of Kay Payne, who was like a mother to Kenny.

The family will receive friends on Monday, July 14th, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow at Poplar Springs Baptist Church in Taylorsville, NC. Rev. Cody Bullman and Rev. Andrew Sharpe will officiate. Pallbearers will be Randy Maye, Nick Maye, Dakota Honeycutt, Ronnie Cunnigham, Russel Wilson, and Shannon Oxentine. Isreal Harrington will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

While we grieve his absence, we rejoice in the hope of the gospel—knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Kenneth’s legacy of faith, love, and service lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Kenny’s honor.

To God be the glory for a life well lived and a soul safely home.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com