EUGENE, Ore. — Barbara Sue May, known lovingly as Bobbi, passed away on Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, at the age of 78 in Eugene, Oregon.
Bobbi was born on Nov. 27, 1947, in Oswego, Kansas, to Manual and Gladys Giles. She was the third of four children and was preceded in death by her older brothers Larry and Butch Giles. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald “Ron” Lee May, with whom she shared a beautiful life. She is survived by her brother Darrel Giles.
After graduating from Labette County High School, Bobbi attended Independence Community College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Office Management. On June 7, 1969, Bobbi married Ronald Lee May in Parsons, Kansas — a joyful day that marked the beginning of a lifelong union built on deep affection, partnership, faith, and unwavering devotion. Together they raised two sons: Chad, born in 1971, and Sean, born in 1976.
Bobbi’s heart expanded as her family grew. She loved her daughter-in-law, Leah May, as though she were her own daughter. As a grandmother, she was known affectionately as “Grammy” to Austin, Brendon, and Addy, each of whom brought her tremendous joy and pride. She also adored her “doggy grandchild,” Cash, whose sweet presence always brightened her day.
Bobbi was known for her exceptional thoughtfulness. She had a remarkable gift for remembering important anniversary dates and meaningful moments in the lives of others. She would often reach out on those days — sending personal, handwritten cards or heartfelt reminders — showing just how deeply she cared.
Her attention to these details reflected her genuine love for people and her ability to lift others up with simple yet profound acts of kindness.
Her sons, Chad and Sean, deeply treasured the daily texts they received from their mom. Hearing from her every single day became a comforting rhythm in their lives. On the rare occasion a text didn’t come through, they felt a sense of worry until they reached her — because she was always there. The care she showed was intentional, sincere, and beautiful, and her steady presence will be profoundly missed.
Bobbi enjoyed traveling, and some of her favorite adventures were the trips she took to visit Sean as his career led him to various locations across the United States. She cherished these opportunities to explore new places, spend time with her son, and create lasting memories.
Throughout her life, Bobbi lived in several places — Portland and Bend, Oregon; Peoria and Pekin, Illinois — before settling in Eugene. Wherever she lived, her warmth, sincerity, and gentle strength endeared her to those around her.
In 1973, Bobbi discovered the spiritual path that shaped the rest of her life. After Jehovah’s Witnesses first knocked on her door that year, she embraced the Bible’s message wholeheartedly and was baptized on Feb. 25, 1973.
Bobbi and Ron were deeply devoted to their worship and service. She pioneered off and on for many years, finding purpose in sharing the Bible’s hope for the future with anyone willing to listen. Her heartfelt interest in people and her steadfast faith led many of her Bible students to become Jehovah’s Witnesses themselves.
Bobbi was known for her compassion — always rooting for the underdog, always reaching out to friends who needed encouragement, and always standing firm in her beliefs. She treasured happy hours with her husband, spending time with family and close friends, attending concerts, and taking memorable trips. Her thoughtful habit of checking in on others made her a source of comfort and strength to many.
Those who knew her will remember her unwavering faith, her generous spirit, her daily acts of kindness, and the love she poured into her family and community.
A memorial service will be held on Dec. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3750 Barger Drive, Eugene, Oregon 97402.
Bobbi will be deeply missed by all who were touched by her kindness and example.
