Obituary of Darrel Mays

Darrel Edward Mays

November 14, 1963 – May 15, 2026

Darrel Edward Mays passed away on May 15, 2026, in Southgate Michigan, at the age of 62.

Darrel was a builder in every sense of the word. By trade, he worked in construction, but his passion for creating extended far beyond the job site. He built his own home, crafted shelves by hand, and constructed every raised garden bed in his yard. If something needed building, Darrel could figure it out. If something needed growing, he could figure that out too.

A devoted gardener, Darrel had a talent for bringing life to places where it seemed impossible. He grew banana trees, orange trees, and lime trees despite living in Michigan, and even spent this past winter tending an indoor jalapeño plant. He believed that with enough patience, knowledge, and care, almost anything could grow.

Music was one of the great loves of his life. His collection of guitars remains a testament to that passion. Darrel could mimic almost any musical sound he heard, despite never learning to read sheet music. The sounds of AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Ozzy Osbourne, and Styx were often not far away. Music wasn't simply something he listened to, it was part of who he was.

Those who knew Darrel remember his calm presence, soothing voice, and welcoming nature. He loved teaching others and sharing what he knew. Knowledge was his superpower, and helping others understand something new brought him genuine joy. One of his favorite sayings was, "I can't teach you common sense, but I can teach you everything else."

Darrel also had a mischievous side. He enjoyed a good debate and never passed up an opportunity to challenge someone's facts, usually because he had already done the research and knew he was right. He often reminded his daughters, "Your smart phone isn't that smart, little girl." More often than not, he proved it.

His interests were as unique as he was. He collected old coins, never met a receipt worth throwing away, and somehow kept every television remote he had owned for decades. If you needed proof of a purchase from fifteen years ago, Darrel probably had it filed away somewhere. He followed the weather with near-professional dedication, tracking dew points, humidity levels, UV indexes, forecasts, and storm systems with fascination. And if there was a campfire to be built, Darrel could make one burn in conditions most people would consider impossible, even in a downpour.

Darrel was preceded in death by his parents.

He leaves behind two daughters whom he adored, six beloved grandchildren, three hard-headed and deeply loved brothers, extended family, countless friends, and all those fortunate enough to learn from him, laugh with him, or simply spend time in his company.

He built a house, filled it with music, surrounded it with gardens, and spent a lifetime sharing what he knew with the people he loved. Though he is gone, the things he created and the lives he touched remain. His lessons, his laughter, his stories, and his unmistakable voice will continue to echo through the family and friends who were lucky enough to know him.

Darrel will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 6th, 2026 at 3:00 PM, 26593 King Road Romulus MI 48174.