Stefanie Jean May, age 49, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully, on April 11, 2025, after a courageous five-month battle with a rare neurological condition accompanied by recurring infections that she faced with remarkable strength and resilience.
Stefanie was born December 8, 1975, to Kenneth and Donna May. She was a graduate of McGavock High School and went on to obtain a Bachelors Degree in Psychology.
Stefanie was a proud and devoted mother to her 15-year-old twin daughters, Sarah and Julia, who were the light of her life. She had a gift for truly tuning in to what mattered to them—always making time to listen, connect, and be present. Whether diving into their latest interests or sharing in their laughter, Stefanie wasn’t afraid to be silly, playful, and right there in the moment with them. Nothing brought her more joy than hearing their laughter fill the room.
Always curious, Stefanie had recently gone back to school online to study Criminal Justice, a field that fascinated her and brought her joy. She could often be found watching crime and justice shows, excitedly sharing plot twists and insights like a seasoned detective.
Stefanie grew to be a passionate Nashville Predators fan, cherishing the special bond it created between her, her father, and her siblings. She loved sharing experiences with the people she cared about—especially going to concerts with her daughters and her sister, where she could soak up the music and laughter, they all shared. Stefanie had a quick wit, a sharp sense of humor, and a childlike way of seeing the world. She loved movies and was known for reciting the entire script to her favorites. She found joy in the little things—whether it was a funny moment or a spontaneous song and dance—and had a remarkable way of turning ordinary days into something truly special. At home, she was happiest surrounded by her three beloved cats, Mason, Mia, and Tori, who brought comfort, companionship, and plenty of entertainment.
Despite the pain and challenges of her final months, Stefanie’s spirit remained unshaken. In one of her last videos, she summed up her philosophy with simple grace: “What we need to do is love one another and take care of one another and be good, kind, and loving people. That’s all we’re supposed to do in this world. Love your mom, love your dad, and take care of your family and your friends.”
Her legacy lives on through her daughters, who carry her strength and her humor forward into the world. Stefanie will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Stefanie was preceded in death by her son, Ryan Anthony May.
She is survived by her parents, Donna and Kenneth May, brother, Ken May, sister, Kim May (Tonya), niece, Shelby Martin (Matthew), nephew, James May, twin daughters, Sarah and Julia Vanderlinde, several special aunts, uncles, cousins, and Sheila Brogdon, Stefanie’s dearest lifelong friend.
There will be a visitation for Stefanie on Thursday April 17, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Hermitage Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens 535 Shute Lane, Old Hickory, TN 37138 with her Celebration of Life service beginning at 2:00 pm in the Chapel with Bro. Terry Carver officiating. She will be laid to rest in the Rachel Mausoleum at Hermitage Memorial Gardens immediately following her service. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/old-hickory-tn
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Nashville Cat Rescue and Nashville Humane Rescue in Stefanie’s name.
For more obituaries visit https://davidsoncountysource.com/obituaries/
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