Samuel A. Mayes

Born on Feb. 17, 1937, in the upstairs of the Mayes family restaurant in Burnham, Sam was the son of the late John O. Mayes and Alma Amanda (Sprankle) Mayes. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Irene Mayes–who he often joked was finally saying, “God, I am ready”; his siblings, James Mayes, Doris Leeper, John O. “Jack” Mayes, Jr., Donald Mayes, Clarence ‘Tom’ Mayes, and Mary Grace McKee, as well as his son-in-law, Michael Fishter. Sam was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He is survived by his loving children, Randy Mayes and his wife, Gail, of Burnham; Cathy Fishter, of Lewistown; and Sally Hoar and her husband, Scott, of Burnham; along with seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, who were a great source of pride and joy in his life.

Sam retired from Standard Steel after many years of dedicated service. Known for his mechanical skill and ingenuity, he was the first in the area to specialize in Volkswagen repair, drawing customers from far and wide. A true outdoorsman, Sam enjoyed hunting, fishing, attending auctions, and spending time with his air rifles. He took great pride in the muzzleloaders he built by hand and competed in numerous events, earning recognition for his exceptional marksmanship–including being asked to represent the state of Pennsylvania. Another labor of love was the meticulous restoration of his cherished 1929 Model A, a project into which he poured his heart and soul.

Sam was a faithful member of the Burnham Church of the Brethren.

In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held.

Arrangements have been entrusted to King-Barr Funeral Home, 120 Logan Street, Lewistown.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Online condolences may be shared at www.kingbarr funeralhome.com