Mary Lina Mayes, age 73, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 20, 2014 at approximately 11:55 a.m. at Lima Memorial Health Systems.

She was born on February 23, 1940 in Rankin County, Mississippi to the union of Albert and Velma Craft Bullock; both parents preceded her in death.

She was united in holy matrimony to Mr. James Mayes who survives in Lima.

She retired from Oakwood Forensic Center as a Nurse.  She was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church where she served on the Mothers Board and was a former member of the church choir.  She was a member of the Eastern Star Phyllis Wheatley Chapter #19, and the International Order of Eastern Star.  She was a member of the Red Hatters of Lima and was a foster parent for Allen County Children's Services.  She was a member of the Allen County Democratic Party Minority Caucus and had served as 2nd vice-president.  She was instrumental in organizing a "Get Out To Vote" campaign for the party.

Besides her loving husband James she leaves to cherish her precious memory, a son, Reginald R. Mayes, Sr. (Beverly) of Lima.  An adopted daughter, Lisa J. Mayes of Lima.  Two special nieces, Shelia Bullock Walker of Lima and Grace Brown of Florence, MS.  A brother, James White (Gloria) of Lima.  A sister, Ruby Mayes (J.W.) of Florence, MS.  4 grandsons, Reginald R. Mayes, Jr., Michael Mayes, HiKeem Mayes and Cordell Turner, 2 great-grandchildren.  A host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by an infant son, Howard L. Mayes.  6 brothers, Paul White, Sam Bullock, Johnny White, Joe Rivers, Willie White and S.W. White.  4 sisters, Grace Lewis, Gladys Mayes, Essie Lee Mayes and Velma Bullock.

Services will be held on Friday, February 28, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church with, Rev. David Kelly, officiating and Rev. Dr. B. LaMont Monford, Sr., eulogizing.