Davidson Nelson Mayes

Davidson Nelson Mayes, age 66, died on June 21, 2025 in Nacogdoches, TX in the presence of his family.

Born on October 10, 1958, David was a lifelong resident of Nacogdoches. He spent his youth exploring Lanana Creek and building forts with his friends. His mother always knew where to find the missing tools of his grandfather.

David spent seven years in the Navy as a Signalman. His ship, the USS Aylwin (FF-1081), was the first to arrive off the coast of Iran during the Embassy Hostage Crisis in 1979. David’s sense of humor and positive attitude earned him the unofficial title of ‘morale officer’ from his shipmates. After his service ended, he worked as foreman for the City of Nacogdoches Water Department for 27 years.

He lived by the phrase, “Life is short. Enjoy yourself.”

David is survived by his wife, Suzie Milstead Mayes; his sister, Alice Mayes Gragg; nieces, Virginia Leigh Gragg, Heather Milstead Peterson (Scott), Heidi Milstead Bransom (Jonathan), and Holly Milstead Uhrie (Michael); nephew, Chad Milstead (Sandhya); and 14 great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Davidson Mayes; his brother, Benjamin “Bubba” Mayes; and his sister, Lill Mayes Johnson.

Visitation will be held at 12:30 pm July, 5 2025, followed by the funeral service at 1 pm, at Christ Episcopal Church in Nacogdoches, TX. Interment will follow at Sunset Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jim Horn, Brian Cheever, and Victor Duran.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Christ Episcopal School, 1428 N. Mound St., Nacogdoches, TX 75961, or a charity of your choice.

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