Lillian May-Dye was born to Mildred Juanita and Sherman Bruce Baker in rural Southeast MO in the late depression era. Though her early years were marked by the economic modesty of that time period, she was rich in love extended by her parents and three sisters, and by a large family network including grandmothers, aunts, uncles, and beloved cousins nearby with whom she enjoyed close relationship. Lillian graduated Gideon High School in 1956, after receiving the honor of Basketball Queen, and maintained lifetime friendships with many classmates with whom she enjoyed annual class reunions. At age 19 she married Raymond A. May, Sr. her husband of 13 years, who preceded her in death. Military life took them to live in California and shortly afterward, France, where Lillian became fluent in the French language. During their three and a half years there, Lillian and Raymond became parents of their two sons, Raymond and Kevin. After returning back in the United States, the young couple's daughter Sheri arrived. In the years immediately following, the young family also lived in Kansas, Germany, and Missouri.

Prior to her travels, Lillian became a member of First Assembly of God Church in Malden, MO where she remained in faithful Christian service for 63 years. Her investments into the lives of others included teaching Sunday school of various ages, working with the youth group, singing with the choir and participating in holiday services. Following the death of Raymond, Lillian obtained further education (in which she received honors) and gained employment in the offices of the Malden School District where she served for more than twenty years.

Later in life Lillian was united in marriage with Kenneth Dean Dye, her husband of 23 years who also precedes her in death. Together they were known fondly by their grandchildren, and later by the children and youth of Malden First Assembly whom they taught in Sunday School, as "May-May and Papa."

Lillian is also preceded in death by a sister, Dorris Fisher, and by a son-in-law, Tony Ray. She is survived by two sisters, Wilma Ellsworth and Faye Baker, three children, Raymond May, Jr. (Linda), Kevin May, and Sheri Ray, four grandchildren of whom she was extremely proud, Beth Fitzgerald (Ross), Brian May, Andrew Ray, and Benjamin Ray, and two great-grandsons, Lanham Fitzgerald and Parker Ray. Additionally, she is survived by her stepson Kelly Dye (Phyllis), several nieces, nephews, and close cousins whom she delighted in seeing and serving each Thanksgiving in her home. Among her family and friends will linger memories of her laughter, love, and unwavering commitment to Christ.

Services will be held at the First Assembly of God in Malden, Missouri. on Wednesday, June 30 ^th , 2021 with a visitation at 11 a.m. and a service to follow at 12 p.m. With Pastor Mark Thrasher officiating. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Malden, Missouri.