May Pryor was born on July 20, 1947, in Tyler, Texas (Smith County), to the union of J.C. and Ora Bell Johnson. She received her formal education at Jackson High School, proudly graduating with the Class of 1965. May was a woman of determination and resilience. Passionate about healthcare and service, she pursued her dream of becoming a nurse, ultimately earning her degree from Dallas College, El Centro Campus. She became a licensed Registered Nurse and began a rewarding career with UT Health Science Center, where she served with dedication and compassion for 25 years until her retirement.

At an early age, May, accepted Christ and united with Warren Chapel CME Church. As her faith deepened, she later joined St. Violet Baptist Church, where she served faithfully as Mission President, Sunday School facilitator, and choir member. May was a scholar of the Word of God — studying scripture was her favorite pastime. Her love for the Lord was unwavering, demonstrated not only in her knowledge but in her faithful
application of God's Word in her daily life. Her discipleship was evident in her actions, her leadership in ministry, and her commitment to serving others.

She was married to Melvin Walton and to this union three children were born, two daughters: Tosha (Arneal), Camelia, and Rodney all of Dallas, TX: She married again and leaves her loving husband of 23 years, Richard Pryor of Longview; and shares a daughter and son Richelle and Richardo Pryor both of Los Angelos California. She also leaves behind 8 beloved grandchildren: Chaaless, Grayson, Iam Pryor, Tarik Pryor,
Imhotep Pryor, Malik Pryor, Ayanna, and Amari; and 6 cherished great-grandchildren: Kyliegh Grace, Dionte, Kalani, Bryson, Aubrey, and Dayton. To treasure her memory, she leaves; three sisters – Ora Moore, Linda Barron both of Tyler, TX and Vivian Morgan of McKinney, TX; four brothers – Gerald Johnson of Dallas, TX and Robert Johnson of Tyler, TX, Willie Mackey (Ursail) Plainview, TX, and Sugar Ray Franklin as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. May will be remembered for her unwavering faith, generous spirit, and lifelong commitment to helping others. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the lives she touched, and the love she gave so freely.