Loree Mays was born on June 21, 1922 in Calhoun City, Mississippi to Johnny and Pearl Williams. She was born to a family of 11, five boys and six girls, including herself. She was preceded in death by her husband, Levi Mays, her parents, nine siblings, and four children, including Othie Pearson. She was affectionately known as "Mrs. Mutt" or in the voice of Levi, "Mutt".

At an early age, she confessed her belief in Christ and was baptized. She served faithfully as a member of Denton Town A.M.E. Zion Church in Calhoun County, Mississippi. It was in Calhoun County where she met her husband, Levi Mays. They were joined in marriage on February 7, 1939. They had 15 children. They were married for 55 years until he died in August 1994. She served as a cook for Hillcrest Hospital in Calhoun City, MS for over 25 years. She loved to show her affection, love and kindness through cooking for her children and those she loved. In June 2008, she relocated from Calhoun City, MS to Toledo, OH due to her failing health. In Toledo, OH she united with St. Paul Baptist Church.

She departed this life on Thursday, June 14, 2018 at 12:57 p.m. She leaves to cherish her memories, one living sister of Villa Park, IL., Bessie Anthony; her children, Laverne Enochs (Oliver), Mary L. Guy (Willie), Emma Allen Woodard (Doug), Bonnie Pinson (Preston), Minnie Smalley (James), Bobbie Mays, Leatrice Davis (James), Jannie Mays, Dwight Mays (Yolanda), Michael Mays (Jackie), Mary A. Moody (Robert). She had 34 grandchildren, 104 great grandchildren, 30 great great grandchildren and, two great great great grandchildren; also a host of relatives; a special friend, Alice Faye Willis, and ABC caregivers.