Michael Wesley Mayes, 57, of Bridgeton, NJ, entered eternal rest on October 12, 2025, at Inspira Medical Center in Vineland, NJ.

Michael was one of four children born to Daniel Mayes and the late Barbara (Robinson) Mayes-Diaz. The Mayes family was very athletic, and Michael was no exception. When Michael was younger, he loved to race BMX bikes and won several championships. Several of his old teammates mentioned on Facebook that Michael was a great rider, he was fast and a legend in the sport. As a result of his racing ability, Michael was inducted into the NJ BMX Hall of Fame.

Michael excelled at baseball and fell in love with the sport during his time playing with Vineland Little League and throughout high school. In Twelfth grade, he decided to show off his skill and speed on the football field as a wide receiver and he scored eight touchdowns that year and he received a varsity letter.

Michael was a 1987 graduate of Vineland High School in Vineland, NJ. After high school, Michael received a scholarship to play baseball at Texas College in Tyler, TX. He attended Texas College for one year. Although his collegiate baseball career was short, Michael played at a high level and led his team in stolen bases. Michael was employed at the Sands Casino in Atlantic City for several years and then he worked for Rock-Tenn Company, Mill Division, Inc. for ten years in Vineland, NJ.

In 2011, Michael was a member of Wings of Faith Kingdom Ministry in Newark, DE where he gave his life to Christ and was baptized. In his free time, Michael enjoyed cooking, playing baseball and softball and spending time with his family and friends.

Michael leaves a legacy of love and memories to his sons, Teyson Mayes, Sr. (Erica) of Vineland, NJ; Jarrett Mayes of Honey Brook, PA; father, Daniel Mayes (VA Medical Center) of Coatesville, PA; Aunt Mary and Uncle Keith Lively of Montclair, VA; brothers, Darnell (Ella) Robinson of Vineland, NJ; Dewitt (Porky) Mayes, Sr. of Atlantic City, NJ; Terry Mayes of Vineland, NJ; Darrel Cooper of New York; grandchildren, Kaylee Mayes; Teyson Mayes Jr.; Cameron Mayes and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Michael was predeceased by his grandfather, Earl Butler; grandmother, Louise Butler; mother, Barbara Mayes-Diaz; sisters, Gail Mayes-Burrus; Patricia Mayes; nephews, Darnell Cook; Devonte Henry Lee Burrus; Dewitt Mayes Jr.; and his best friend, William (Bill) Watson.

Though he is gone, he will not be forgotten. We will cherish his memory in our heartsforever.