Cover photo for Rubin "Leon" Mays II's Obituary
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1977 Rubin "Leon" Mays 2025

Rubin "Leon" Mays II

September 18, 1977 — July 30, 2025

In Loving Memory of Rubin "Leon" Mays II

September 18, 1977 – July 30, 2025

Rubin “Leon” Mays II was born on September 18, 1977, to Louise and Rubin Leon Mays I. From an early age, Leon brought laughter, compassion, and a spark of creativity to everyone he encountered. He attended Boise Grade School, where he met his favorite teacher, Ms. Ellie, who inspired his love for learning and left a lasting impact.

Leon graduated from POIC in 1996 and later pursued his passion for cooking by earning a degree from culinary school. He was known for his bold approach in the kitchen, never shy to say, “I know I can make it better,” always putting his own spin on every recipe.

Leon found joy in simple pleasures—fishing with friends and family, cracking jokes, listening with a caring heart, and offering the kind of advice that only he could deliver. He was a steady presence in the lives of his cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends—always showing up, always making people laugh, and always lending a helping hand.

Even after being diagnosed with cancer, Leon met every day with courage, strength, and the will to keep going. He never stopped fighting and never stopped loving. He passed away on July 30, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Leon is now reunited in heaven with many beloved family members: Patricia Hayes “Shane” (Aunt), Mattie Hayes (Grandmother), Hubert Hayes “Jr.” (Uncle), Cleophis Alexander Sr. (Grandfather), Grace Alexander (Grandmother), Geraldine Hayes “Dean” (Aunt), Cleophis Alexander Jr. “Ricky” (Uncle), Terry Alexander (Uncle), Richard Mays (Uncle), Barbara Robinson (Aunt), Randy Alexander (Uncle), Doris Alexander “Gena” (Aunt), James Rouse (Cousin), Lamarr Luster “Squeaky” (Cousin), Sharon Goldsby (Cousin), and Ezekiel Handy “Zeke” (Cousin).

He is survived by his loving parents, Louise Mays and Rubin Mays I; his sister, Tonia Mays; his uncle, Robin Mays; aunts Francine Alexander and Joann Goldsby; and a large extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry his memory forward with love and pride.

Leon will be remembered for his heart, his humor, his strength, and the way he made everyone feel like family.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Rubin "Leon" Mays II, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

10:30am - 4:30 pm (Pacific time)

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Rose City Cemetery and Funeral Home

5625 NE Fremont Street, Portland, OR 97213

Viewing in our Chapel, Visiting hours 10:30 AM- 4:30 PM

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Funeral Service

Thursday, August 21, 2025

12:00 - 1:30 pm (Pacific time)

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Rose City Cemetery and Funeral Home

5625 NE Fremont Street, Portland, OR 97213

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Burial

Thursday, August 21, 2025

2:00 - 5:00 pm (Pacific time)

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Rose City Cemetery and Funeral Home

5625 NE Fremont Street, Portland, OR 97213

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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