John Ketten May went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 8, 2025. His life story is one of hard work, dedication, and a deep connection to the land he loved. Born in Cuero on October 9, 1965, to Wesley and Julia May, he grew up in the country where his love for land, cattle, and heavy machinery blossomed. From a young age, John displayed a strong entrepreneurial spirit. At just 17, he took a major step by purchasing a John Deere tractor, beginning his journey as a self-employed farmer, rancher, and dozer operator. He never shied away from hard work, always striving to provide for his family and proudly maintaining his strong work ethic. Whether it was clearing brush in De-Witt County, working in the oil field, operating heavy machinery on highway construction, or running his own multi-million dollar hay operation that he jokingly referred to as a “nonprofit,” John was always giving his best. His commitment to his work and his ability to make people laugh with his humor were integral parts of who he was. John's legacy as a man who loved his work and his family will surely be remembered by all who knew him.
John was most proud of his only daughter, Tonya Nicole May. He loved being her father and spending time with her. Their relationship had its ups and downs over the years, but he was looking forward to her moving back to Cuero in September and going to work for him full-time.
John was preceded in death by his father, Wesley “Jackie” May; his grandparents, Otis and Loyce May and Arnold and Hilda Meyer.
He is survived by his mother, Julia May; his brother, James May; daughter, Tonya May; fiancé, Jennifer Watson; Step-children, Macon and Madilyn Thomas, Sherice and Sergio Gonzalez, Ashley Michalek, T.R. Repka and Tyler Kimbrel; as well as several cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews that he loved.
Pallbearers for his services will be Logan Newton, Macon Thomas, Dustin May, Sammy Solis, Sergio Gonzalez, Thomas Watson and Trent Watson.
Honorary pallbearers will be James May, Charles May, Tommy Watson, Joe Hudson, Gifford Champion, and Edward Keseling.
Visitation for John was Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 4:00 – to 6:00 pm at Freund Funeral Home. Funeral Services were held on Sunday, January 12, 2025, 2:00 pm at Freund Funeral Home with Reverend Terry Brown officiating. Burial will be private, but everyone is invited to the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall at 3:00 pm for a reception.
You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome. com.
Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.
