Chester Mays

Chester Lewis Mays was born on April 21, 1962, to the late James Mays and Bertha Flowers-Mays, both of Wrightsville, Arkansas. He spent a portion of his childhood in San Bernardino, California, before his mother relocated the family back to Arkansas. Chester graduated from Mills High School in 1980. He worked several jobs before beginning his long and dedicated career with the Arkansas Department of Corrections, where he served for approximately 25 years. Over the years, Chester also worked as an officer at the Arkansas State Hospital, with the Laidlaw Bus System, at Shorter College, and operated his own security business, Certified Blue, LLC. Chester was a hardworking, funny, and devoted family man. He was a role model to many, loyal, committed, and dedicated to serving his community. His smile and personality could brighten anyone’s day, and he never hesitated to help those in need. In every role he held, including his service in law enforcement and corrections, Chester treated others with dignity and respect, encouraging them to persevere through life’s challenges. To many, he was more than a cousin, friend, or coworker, he was like a brother. He genuinely loved people and had a gift for uplifting and motivating those around him. Though he sometimes appeared tough on the outside, those closest to him knew he had a kind and compassionate heart. When Chester wasn’t working, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly. He held a special place in his heart for his youngest grandson, Princeton. Chester’s passing is difficult to process. As one cousin expressed so beautifully, “Chester truly personified what it meant to be an officer and a gentleman, a good soul who illuminated our family with honor, dignity, and respect. He will truly be missed.” Chester leaves to cherish his memory his children: Nastashia Mays of Dallas, Texas; Alisha (Desmond) Beasley of Little Rock, Arkansas; and Justin Mays of Little Rock, Arkansas. He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Justin Mays Jr., Harmony, Siyauna, and Alaysia Beasley; Princeton Mays; and Deysha Mays. He also leaves behind his siblings: Theresa Mays of Wrightsville, Arkansas; Derrick Johnson Mays of Detroit, Michigan; and Sharon Mays of McKinney, Texas. He is lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews—Erica, Yulanda, LaPorsha, Mattie, Jammel, Eric, and Quinton—as well as a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Chester Mays

April 21, 1962 - April 28, 2026