It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kelvin Joseph Melice Mayes Jr., who departed this life on February 17, 2025, at the age of 43 in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Born on November 13, 1981, in Long Branch, NJ, Kelvin was a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Kelvin was the cherished son of Kelvin Mayes Sr., Gloria Thomas, and beloved stepfather Bernard Thomas. He was a devoted and loving father to his son, Jamieson L. Mayes, who was his pride and joy. He is also survived by his siblings: Cheronn Davis, Paulette Holmes, Tiandra Holmes, Kristin Mayes, Cherie Lumpkin, Anthony Williams and Brian Showers. His love extended to his many nephews and nieces including Eugene Jackson, Kyle Jackson, Divine Mills, Starr Brown-Holmes, Journey Mills, Reilly Johnson-Davis, Roman Smiley, and Cian Davis, Nia Ramos, as well as his precious great-niece, Emerie Jackson.
Kelvin pursued his passion for hands-on work, earning his education at Lincoln Tech Institute from April 2012 to March 2014. He built a career as an HVAC Technician and was also the proud CEO of Mayes Line Kennels, where he poured his heart into breeding and caring for dogs. A man of many talents, Kelvin had a natural gift for comedy, bringing joy and laughter to everyone around him.
Kelvin served in the United States Army with the rank of PV1, dedicating 1.5 years of service to his country. His discipline and sense of responsibility were evident not only in his military service but also in the way he fiercely protected and loved his family.
Kelvin was a man of honor, values, standards, and morals. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and had an unmatched ability to touch lives with his charm, comedic energy, and unwavering support for those he cared about. He was especially protective of his nieces and nephews, always ensuring they felt safe, cherished, and empowered. Among all his relationships, his mother, Gloria Thomas, held a special place in his heart, and she cared for him with endless love and devotion until his final breath. His stepfather, Bernard Thomas, was also a pillar of strength and importance in his life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jamieson L. Mayes Irrevocable Trust to support his son’s future via:
Cash App- $JamiesonMayesTrust
Zelle: 917.621.6231 (Kristin Mayes)
Kelvin was a light in the lives of so many, and though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit, laughter, and love will forever live on in our hearts.
Fast and Furious! This is our life experience. I appreciate our last ride together! Love you always, bruh
Kelvin you’ll be truly missed; To Gloria and rest of the family you are all in my prayers. Find comfort in each other.