Otis Wayne Mayes

Otis “Wayne” Mayes, passed away surrounded by family on Monday, June 17, 2024 in Prague, Oklahoma, at the age of 85.  Wayne was born on October 20, 1938 in Prague, Oklahoma.  He was the son of Carl Ernest and Della (Jones) Mayes.  He grew up in Prague, attended Prague Schools and was a 1956 graduate of Prague High School.  Wayne married his high school sweetheart, Wanda Lee Hollon on October 21, 1960 at Deer Creek Baptist Church.  Together, they made their home in Prague, where they raised two daughters, Regina and Sheila.

After high school, Wayne proudly served his country by joining the United States Army, where he served with the Fifth Infantry Division from 1961-1963.  Following his active-duty service, Wayne continued to serve with the US Army Reserves, ninety-fifth division until 1967.  Following his service to his country, Wayne went to work at Tinker Air Force Base, where he worked for many years before retiring in 1994.

Wayne had a strong faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and  was a very active member in the Deer Creek Baptist Church.  He was baptized at Deer Creek on April 10, 1972 and was later ordained as a Deacon on October 7, 1973.  Wayne was also active in the American Legion and was an avid supporter of those who served in the United States Armed Forces.  Wayne took great pride in his country, displaying flags in every room of his home.

Wayne was rarely sitting still.  He loved to tinker and piddle.  He enjoyed wood working, gardening and spending time on his tractor.  He also enjoyed painting, drawing and coin collecting.  Wayne was also very passionate about his family.  He stood by and cared for his loving wife, for more than sixty-four years.  He was also a loving father, grandfather, brother and friend and will be missed by many.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Wanda Jean Cowan and his sister-in-law, Earlene Mayes.

Those left to cherish his memory are, his loving wife of more than 63 years, Wanda Lee Mayes; two daughters, Regina Martin and her husband, Bobby, of Prague and Sheila Krauter and her husband, Thomas, of Prague; four grandchildren, Ryan Martin and his wife, Courtney; Bobby J. Martin, Chase Krauter and his wife, Chassidy and Kelsie Guy and her husband, Matthew; ten great-grandchildren, Gabby, Emma, Blakley, Parker, Langston, Cash, Baker, Ellie, Tinley and Maverick; his brother, Glen Mayes and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.