James C. May, age 78, of Milwaukee passed away August 20, 2026.

Survived by sister, Nancy May of Tampa, FL, and brother, Richard May of Delafield, WI. Predeceased by parents, Earl and Muriel May and nephew, Patrick May.

Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and colleagues.

James was a dedicated teacher and world traveler.

Graduated 1966 from Pewaukee High School.
Graduated 1970 from WSU Whitewater majoring in French and Spanish education.
Graduated 1979 from UWM with a Masters in English as a second language, Reading and Urban Education.
Fulbright Teacher Exchange to Senegal 1988-89.
Participated in Global Volunteers 19 times, teaching English in Cuba, Ecuador, Poland, Portugal, China and Malaysia.
James spent 34 years in the classroom including Zion Benton Township High, Sholes Jr. High and 24 years at Rufus King High School, in Milwaukee. He spent an additional 19 years at UWM teaching and mentoring student teachers.

James visited 93 countries. His goal was to visit 100. If you have the chance to travel, appreciate the opportunity, and thank God you have the ability to do so. When asked why he never moved overseas, he replied, “it’s nicer here, the rest of the world does not live like we do.”

He loved educating and continued to do so through the CaringBridge website while documenting his open and honest journey following his cancer diagnosis.

A celebration of life will be held at Galilee Lutheran Church, N24 W26430 Crestview Drive, Pewaukee, WI 53072, on Friday, October 2, 2026. Visitation starts at 1:00 p.m., followed by a service from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The May family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care during James’ final days, and all those who reached out to James during his illness for their kindness and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the Wisconsin Humane Society in James May’s memory.