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February 25, 2004 – May 28, 2026
After a nearly six-year battle with a rare liver cancer, Benjamin Edward Mayes, age 22, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Ben faced his illness with extraordinary strength, determination, and grace. While cancer became part of his story, it never defined him. He refused to let his disease keep him from living life fully, pursuing his dreams, or being the remarkable person he was. Through every challenge, Ben demonstrated resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to making the most of every day he was given.
An old soul with a kind and generous heart, Ben had a way of making others feel valued and welcome. He was thoughtful, wise beyond his years, and deeply loved by all who knew him.
Despite the many obstacles he faced, Ben remained dedicated to his education and future. He earned his Associate’s Degree from Michigan Technological University and was just one semester away from completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, a testament to his perseverance and determination.
Even in death, Ben’s generosity and desire to help others continued. He chose to donate his body to the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine Body Donation Program, with the hope that medical research and education might one day lead to better treatments—and ultimately a cure—for the disease he fought so courageously. It was one final act of selflessness from a young man who never stopped thinking about how he could make a difference in the lives of others.
Ben found joy in many pursuits. He loved building with Legos, playing online games with friends, playing Magic: The Gathering, and enjoying a good game of poker. Some of his most treasured moments were spent around a poker table with family and friends, sharing laughter, stories, and companionship. Ben seemed to embody the sentiment: “You can’t change the cards you were dealt, only the way you play your hand.” Through every triumph and hardship, he lived those words with remarkable courage and character.
Above all else, Ben cherished time with his family and friends. The relationships he built and the love he shared will remain a lasting gift to those fortunate enough to have known him.
Ben was welcomed into Heaven by his grandfather, Edward Thomas; his grandmother, Bonnie (Kezar) Mayes; his aunt, Jill (Thomas) Shye; his Great Aunt Laurie Mayes, his Great Uncle Mike Mayes, and many other deeply loved family and friends.
Ben is survived by his loving parents, Scott and Mary Jo (Thomas) Mayes; his brother, Joshua Mayes; and a large and loving extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Though his time on earth was far too short, Ben’s impact was immeasurable. His strength, kindness, humor, generosity, and enduring spirit will continue to inspire all who loved him.
Forever loved. Forever missed.
Ben Mayes, you played your hand well.
Celebration of Life to be held on June 27. Please see social media for details.
To honor Ben and ensure his spirit of kindness and generosity lives on, the family has established the B A-Mayes-ing Scholarship through the Roscommon County Community Foundation. Please direct any memorial contributions to the B A-Mayes-ing Scholarship Fund. Checks payable to the Roscommon County Community Foundation with B A-Mayes-ing on the memo line may be mailed to: RCCF, P.O. Box 824, Roscommon, MI 48653. Gifts may also be made online at https://www.myrccf.org/funds/b-a-mayes-ing-scholarship-fund/
