Barry R. May

Barry Robert May, 81, of Marietta, Ohio, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 14, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to Alvin and Pearl May.  He graduated from Edsel Ford High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Spring Arbor University in Michigan, a Master of Arts from the University of Maryland, and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. While at Spring Arbor, he met his future wife, Fran, on a blind date, and they married in June 1967.

Barry had a lifelong passion for athletics, competing in track, cross-country, and racquet sports while enthusiastically cheering on the Michigan Wolverines. His career in education and coaching spanned several Christian colleges, where he made a lasting impact. He taught Physical Education and coached Track & Field and Cross Country at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana, where he also served as Athletic Director and later Dean of Student Development. He continued his career at Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky, where he chaired the Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Athletics (HPERA). Additionally, he served as Executive Director of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).

Beyond his professional roles, Barry was an active and dedicated member of his communities. In Marion, Indiana, he was involved with Rotary, served on the board of the College Wesleyan Church, taught a 5th-grade Sunday School class, and was Chairman of NAIA District 21. In Wilmore, Kentucky, he was a devoted member of the Free Methodist Church, where he contributed to the Finance Team.

Barry received numerous accolades, including inductions into the Spring Arbor University Hall of Fame, the Indiana Wesleyan Hall of Honor, and the NCCAA Hall of Fame. However, what meant the most to him were the heartfelt letters and words of appreciation from athletes, fellow coaches, faculty, and friends who knew him as a kind, loyal, and honorable man—a devoted believer and follower of Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his loving wife, Fran E. May; son, Ryan Kendall May (Denay) of Marietta, Ohio; daughter, Christi Lee Anne Houston (Daniel) of Indianapolis, Indiana; sister, Jan Merrill of Aurora, Colorado; and seven cherished grandchildren: Audrey May Siegelin (Adam), Camden May (Sophie), Kendal May, Sebastian Houston, and Jameson Houston.

Barry is preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Pearl, and son Alan Francis May.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Marietta First Church of the Nazarene, with Pastor Kevin D’Ettorre. Visitation will be for two hours prior to the services on Friday at the church. Burial, with graveside services, will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Grant Memorial Park in Marion, Indiana.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to those who supported Barry throughout his final journey, including Anita White (a God-given caregiver), Amedisys Hospice, members of M1Naz, and The Right at Home Agency.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Bible Society, Hospice, or the Marietta First Church of the Nazarene. Cawley & Peoples is honored to serve Barry’s family and offers online condolences as well as many other resources by visiting their website, www.CawleyandPeoples.com or by following their Facebook page.