Walter Jones May, Jr.
January 5, 1956 - December 7, 2025
Walter Jones May, Jr. passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on January 5, 1956, to Walter May, Sr. and Hazel June Brown, the youngest of six brothers. He lived a life shaped by loyalty, humor, and an easygoing charm that made people feel at home.
His 15 years with the Utah Auto Auction and 16 years with the Utah Food Bank are only two examples of a work ethic that began when he was 15 years old. He was most proud of the difference he made as Programs Director at the Food Bank, especially the programs he implemented for children.
Walt’s life was guided by simple joys and a deep devotion to family. He was happiest in the routines he built around the things he loved most: Utah football Saturdays, time on the tennis court, playing piano, and being a grandfather. His grandkids were his pride and joy, and he embraced the role with his signature mix of warmth, mischief, and the kind of dad jokes that made you groan and laugh at the same time.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; his children, Jaime, Brianne, and David; and his grandchildren: Taylor, Jo, Hailey, Isabel, Lukas, and Leo. Each of them carries a piece of his humor, kindness, and steady presence.
Walt leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and countless stories that his family will keep telling—along with the dad jokes he’d insist they continue sharing.
Family and friends are invited to gather with us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Eulogies will be shared from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by time together honoring and remembering his life from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 2315 E Redondo Ave, Salt Lake City. He will be laid to rest following mass at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 4th Avenue and “T” Street, Salt Lake City.
In Loving Memory
Dear Mary and family, my sincere condolences. I loved Jones (that's what I knew him as) and feel so fortunate to have had him as a brother in law. I know he will be missed terribly by so many people, especially the family that loved him so dearly. You are all in my thoughts and in my heart.
Don Peterson
Rehoboth Neach, DE
Dear darling Mary, My heart goes out to you and family with the loss of Jones. I hope you find some solace with your family around you. My love to you and know I’m here should you need anything. Love to you all Jenny
Jennifer “Jenny” Katz
South Jordan, UT
Dear Bree: Our deepest condolences to you and your families on the passing of your father, Walt. He is part of all of you and will always be looking over you from Heaven.
Mark Reinking
ROCKLIN, California
Dear Mary and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Walt was such a fun and kind man. We will miss him so much. We are so honored to have known him. He will be in our hearts forever.
Frank and Jamie Zabka
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Mary. We are so sorry for your loss. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sheldon and Clara
Clara Tuffyas
Phoenix, Arizona
Dear Bree, you are heavy on my mind and I continue to send you and your family strength through the universe. Your father sounds like an amazing man. May the memories of his love and influence help you through this difficult time. Love, Suzanne
Suzanne Albert
Plantation, Florida
I loved working with Walt at my time at my time at UFB. He was always finding the humor in life and cared for others. My condolences to him lovely family.
Cathy Green
Salt Lake City, Utah
My heartfelt condolences. Walt and I only overlapped about a year at Utah Food Bank. His warm smile and frequent jokes always made me feel welcome especially as a newbie.
Vicki Novom
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Mary and family, My heart goes out to you all at this very difficult time. Walt (Jones) left his footprints in our hearts. He was fun and full of life. His humor could take you by surprise. His laughter was memorable and contagious. He was loved and will leave a space in all of our hearts. Love and light to everyone as you make your journey forward. May the memories brighten your way.
Cindy Danjanovich
Sandy, Utah