William Russell Mayes

William Russell Mayes passed away suddenly on January 29th at his home in Pocatello, ID. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Marie Nash Mayes and his children: William J. (Jeanette) Mayes of Nampa, ID; Russell (Tia) Mayes of Twin Falls, ID; Gretchen (Matthew) Duersch of Twin Falls, ID; Heidi (Jared) Colson of Pocatello, ID; and Sonia (Jason) Barney of Idaho Falls, ID. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Harden Mayes and Kathlyn Cranney Mayes Stubblefield.

Bill was born on December 27, 1945 in Boise, ID and grew up on a farm in Oakley, ID. He graduated from Idaho State University in 1969 with a degree in Secondary Education and received his Master's Degree in 1977. He spent most of his 33 year career teaching math at Highland High School. He remained a fan of the Rams and even after retiring, loved doing the stats for their football games. Bill was an extremely hard worker; many of the grain silos you see dotting the landscape of southern Idaho were built by him. After retiring from the school district in 2002 Bill continued to work, teaching at ISU until 2018.

While attending college Bill met the love of his life, Marie Nash. They were married July 26,1968 in the Logan Temple. Bill's greatest joy came from showering Marie with love and was constantly giving her little presents and acts of service. Bill was also notorious for spoiling his five children. They were never in doubt of his unending love and devotion to them as well as their mother.

Bill was selfless and kind-hearted. He always carried cash in case he came across someone in need. He constantly found ways to love and serve his neighbors whether it be shoveling the sidewalks or gifting his famous homemade salsa. Anyone who has been a recipient of his dutch oven meals will agree that he had a talent for sharing love through cooking. Bill was also known for his sense of humor. His dad jokes and (often inappropriate) funny stories brought joy to all who knew him.

Bill was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and faithfully served in many callings throughout his life. He had a strong testimony that families are forever, and we know we will see him again. He is survived by his wife, children, fourteen grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

A viewing will be held from 6-8 PM on Friday, February 5, 2021 at Wilks funeral home. Private family services will be held on Saturday. Webcasting of the service will be availible at 11:00 AM on Bill's tribute page.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family under the "Tribute Wall" tab above.