A Life Story
Richard Victor May, 83, of Savannah, Georgia, made his final journey home to the Lord on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. Known affectionately to his family and friends as Dick, he was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to Winnie (Akers) and Vic May. From an early age, Dick distinguished himself through his intellect, character, and determination. He was a member of the first class of young men to graduate from Devon Preparatory High School in Devon, Pennsylvania, where he earned the distinction of valedictorian. Years later, he was honored to return to Devon Prep as a commencement speaker. He earned his B.S. from Villanova University and was commissioned as an officer in the United State Marine Corps. He served as a company commander in Vietnam and remained deeply proud of his service to his country throughout his life. He was honorably discharged as a Captain in 1967 and carried the values instilled in him by the Marine Corps—honor, courage, and commitment—throughout the remainder of his life. Following his military service, Dick began a long and successful career in sales management with Union Camp. He devoted more than 30 years to the company’s box division before retiring. Throughout his professional life, he was admired for his integrity, determination, leadership, and genuine ability to connect with people. In 1965, Dick married the love of his life, Stephanie Ursprung. Together, they shared 61 years of marriage, building a life filled with faith, family, friendship, and countless cherished memories. Their greatest joy was their family, and Dick took immense pride in his four children and grandchildren. A devout Catholic, Dick’s faith was the foundation of his life. He faithfully served his parish community as a lector and usher at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church on Wilmington Island. His faith was not simply something he professed; it was reflected in the way he lived—with generosity, kindness, humility, and an unwavering commitment to others. Dick also had a lifelong love of athletics. In his younger years, he was an avid tennis player and golfer. As he aged, Dick continued to find great enjoyment on the golf course, where he cherished both the game and, perhaps even more, the companionship of his many friends at The Savannah Country Club. Above all, his unwavering faith gave rise to a generous spirit, a remarkable optimism, and a deep commitment to living life fully. He had a gift for making people feel valued and welcomed, and his warmth, humor, and kindness left an enduring impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered not only for the many accomplishments of his life, but for the extraordinary character with which he lived it. In addition to his wife Stephanie, Dick leaves behind two sons, Dave May (Dawn) of Augusta, GA, and Steven May (Danielle) of Savannah, GA; and two daughters, Cindi May (Steve Feingold) of Charleston, SC, and Sharon Bell (Bill) of Savannah, GA, as well as twelve grandchildren and a great-grandchild. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church on Wilmington Island. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:15 a.m. A reception will follow at The Savannah Country Club on Wilmington Island. All are welcome to join the family in celebrating Dick’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, donations made be made in Dick’s memory to St. Peter the Apostle Church at 7020 Concord Rd, Savannah, GA 31410.
