To the editor:

Almost 40 years ago I made one of the best decisions of my life when I asked Dr. Joe May to deliver my son. Being a nurse at the old Carter County Memorial Hospital I had observed and admired his skill and compassion.

What I didn’t know then was that he would continue to be such an important part of my family’s life all the years afterward.

Dr. Joe was one of the few true family doctors left. He took excellent care of all of us. There seemed to be nothing that he couldn’t fix.

Even in later years when we did have to seek specialized care he walked with us through the process, always concerned and in touch.

I know there are many many other families in town who could say the same about Dr. Joe May.

The last time I saw him a couple of months ago he told me he still looked forward to coming to work every day. What a ministry he lived!

He was a kind man and was so proud of his family.

He always shared some little bit about one of them and how peaceful he felt when they were all doing well.

Dr. Joe’s recent death seemed to happen much too soon and is a huge loss for his family and for everyone who knew and loved him.

He has left us now and we know his rewards are plenty and that we will see him again.

So, for now, go with God, Dr. Joe. We thank you for all you did.

We miss you so much already.

 

Gary and Karen Elliott, Jason, Michele and Sara Elliott, and Suzanne Elliott

Elizabethton