Canon John Mayes who has passed away aged 76
The Reverend Canon John Mayes (76), who passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, served at All Saints Church in the Waterside area of Derry from 1992.
He was also the Bishop’s Secretary of Inter Church Affairs and Rural Dean of Derry.
Canon Mayes has been described as a warm, compassionate man who always put other people first.
The Rev Paul Whittaker, his friend of more than 25 years, said: “When I was ordained in 1995 in Killowen Parish Church, Johnny was actually one of the clergy (at the ceremony) and we have been friends since.
“Over that time I got to know him pretty well. He was a fantastic guy. He was so laid-back and was a real people person.
“He always put people first but, as well as that, he was very, very highly regarded amongst the clergy, not just in Derry and Raphoe, but right across Ireland.”
Albert Smallwoods worked alongside Canon Mayes on the Bishop’s Appeal Services, raising funds for the developing world.
“He was calm and organised and I loved his method of chairing meetings because he was so relaxed,” he said.
“I remember him in his role as rural dean. He had a great way with him and people were very drawn to him.”
Canon Mayes will be laid to rest at St Patrick’s Parish Churchyard in Kilrea following a Service of Thanksgiving in St Columb’s Cathedral at noon tomorrow.
Attendance at the funeral will be restricted because of COVID-19 regulations.
Canon Mayes is survived by his wife Alison, sons Rory and Aonghus and daughter Victoria.
Family flowers only.
Donations in lieu, if desired, to St Columb’s Cathedral Restoration Fund, c/o Very Rev. Raymond Stewart, The Rectory, 30 Bishop’s Street, Derry, BT48 6PP or Foyle Hospice, c/o Mrs Ruth Hay, Funeral Director, 24a Church Road, Altnagelvin, Derry, BT47 3QQ.
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