Leola Carter May was born on October 16, 1927, in Carthage, Texas, and passed away on October 24, 2025. She was the daughter of Pete and Nancy Fite Carter. From an early age, Leola was a member of New Haven C.M.E. Church, where she nurtured her faith throughout her life.

She was married to U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Paul Anthony May, with whom she shared a loving relationship. Together, they had two daughters, Marsha Roland and Pamela Lee. Leola was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Nancy Carter; her husband, Paul May; and her siblings Augustus Carter, Johnnie B. Carter, Sarah Ware, George Carter, Girtie Gates, Frankie Mosley, and Dr. Lamore Carter; and grandchild, Catherine Leola Jones.

Leola is survived by her two daughters, Marsha Roland and Mister and Mrs. Curtis Lee, who hold her memory dear. She is also survived by her grandchildren Peta May, Jason Lee, Kammela Lee, and Christine Jones, as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were touched by her kindness and warmth.

She retired from her role as a program assistant at the University of Illinois, where she dedicated many years of service. Leola enjoyed reading the Bible, shopping, and spending quality time with her family, activities that brought her peace and happiness.

Leola often shared the saying, "You learn as long as you live, and you live as long as you learn." Her life reflected this belief, and those who knew her benefited greatly from her wisdom and love.

May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jerry Jeter and Minister Dewey Mosley officiating. Interment will follow at Walnut Grove Cemetery. Public viewing will be from 12 noon-5:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Pallbearers are Jason Lee, Justin Lee, Mon Jones, DeVince Walton, Tony Alonzo, Jr., and Volton Roberts, Jr.

A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.