Wanda Russell, Eastern Area Vice President

George Mays was the communications director for UTIA Retirees, and according to past president John Jared, was “the glue” that kept this organization running smoothly. He was very technology savvy, and loved using his knowledge to keep up with what was going on with his fellow retirees, and keeping us all informed through his work with the organization newsletter. He also maintained the membership roster, including addresses and contact info. But, he was so much more than that. George was a one-of a-kind communications professional.

Most folks may not know that George was a self-taught communicator. His BS from UT (1960) and his MS (also UT, 1964) were both in Animal Science. He told me once that he got a call when he was working in Animal Science (as a lecturer, as I remember) from someone in Morgan Hall asking him if he would help out in the Communications office. He never looked back, and became an expert in the premier medium of the time, radio. He created weekly radio shows featuring specialists and their areas of expertise, and sent them to stations across the state. Then he worked in TV, and eventually, distance learning, with satellite programs across the state. He absolutely loved technology, and was always the first to embrace the newest ideas and media. He was one of the most meticulous, detail-oriented and thorough communicators I’ve ever known. He loved what he did. And he did it exceptionally well, for more than 30 years, until his retirement as Professor Emeritus in 1999.

Another thing George loved was 4-H. He was the statewide coordinator for the 4-H Communications Project, including the Public Speaking activities. He always looked forward to attending 4-H Congress, where he could watch the young people shine with what they’d learned in Public Speaking. I can’t remember that he ever missed a Congress.

George and his late brother Ben had a large farm in Greene County, where they grew up. George spent weekdays in Knoxville, but weekends in Greeneville, working on the farm, putting his agriculture knowledge to work. He loved both sides of his busy life. He had some health issues through the years, but rarely did he let them slow him down.

He was warm and welcoming to me in 1984, when I joined the Extension Communications staff. I was the only female specialist in the office at that time, so I always had my own room when we travelled across the state for training county staff. Conrad Reinhardt (our leader), George, Charles Walker, Gary Dagnan, and Bud Grimes had to share rooms (budgets). I just remember I felt so very lucky to be a part of such a great group. We had wonderful times together.

George had intended to attend our April 28 retirees meeting, and had reserved a lunch. We were surprised when he wasn’t there, and had no idea that he had passed away the previous weekend, April 23rd. His memorial service was actually on the 28th. I wish we had known, but I’m glad we knew him as long as we did. We’ll miss him.

John Jared, Eastern Region

As I look back over my years as a retiree, I cannot think of anyone who has contributed more to the success and stability of the UTIA Retiree Association than George Mays. The commitment, expertise, and unquestionable loyalty he steadfastly exhibited stands out as an example of someone worthy of being remembered. His efforts and influence will be deeply felt and recognized as the organization moves forward in the days ahead.

On a more personal note, I frequently called on George during my time as an officer for answers to questions that I often encountered. He always went the extra mile each time to provide pertinent and reliable information. In fact, I think he looked forward to the opportunity to be of assistance.

However, to be fair, I was sometimes more confused by his answer to my highly technical question than I was before asking. George had forgotten more about electronics and technical concepts than I had ever known. Technology was his life! As a result, it wasn’t uncommon after talking with George for me to ask myself, “What did he say?’’ Nevertheless, he always gave the correct answer in detail. The real problem was my limited technical knowledge and lack of understanding.

One day while serving as president, I drove to George’s home in Greeneville to learn more about my role and how he managed the many things he did for the retirees. After visiting for a couple of hours, I felt I had gained a true glimpse of how it would feel to visit the NASA Space Center. George had electronic equipment in every direction I looked, and it all worked and had a purpose. The experience brought me to the realization that I should never question his knowledge and expertise about such things.

Although George was especially knowledgeable and helpful with technical matters, he contributed significantly in many other ways. He was a stickler for details. No one understood and followed our constitution and bylaws more than George. As such, he was a major contributor to reviewing and updating those two documents in 2017. In addition, his assistance was vital to collecting, organizing, and submitting articles to each quarterly newsletter. He worked to maintain the association’s website, membership lists and numerous other functions that kept the organization strong and relevant. He was most instrumental in giving the association its needed new name.

George Mays was a pillar of the UTIA Retirees Association and someone that will not soon be forgotten.

Thank you, George!