Charles Maypray

Charles Maypray, 71, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Norton Healthcare Pavilion in Louisville, Kentucky, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born on October 13, 1954, in Hopkinsville, Christian County, Kentucky, to the late Ben Tom, and Shirley Maypray.

Charles attended Christian County High School in Hopkinsville, KY. Throughout his life, Charles was known for his strong work ethic and versatility. He worked as an automotive technician, coal miner, truck driver, press operator, agricultural worker, and factory associate. He truly was a jack of all trades. Charles had a passion for fishing, enjoyed listening to blues music, and was a devoted fan of Kentucky Wildcats basketball.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Frank H. Maypray Sr. and Ben Maypray Jr.; his sister, Joyce A. Maypray; and several other siblings. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Henry L. Street Jr.; Aunt Agnes Sturges; his uncle, Walter L. Maypray; and Wife Tonya Brown Maypray.

Charles leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Dorothy Payton Maypray; his stepchildren, Davonna Briggs, Kionna Payton, Clarissa Briggs, and Britney Brown; and his sons, Antwon Brown and Brandon Brown. He is also survived by his brothers, Fernando Maypray, Antonio (Linda) Maypray, Arnold (Casietta) Maypray; his sisters, Sharon Maypray, Beverly Maypray, and Annette Maypray Street. He is further survived by his in-laws, Katie (Kenny) Martins, David (Bernetta) Thomas Jr.; brothers-in-law, Kenny Martin Jr., Starling Martin, Emmanuel Martin, David Thomas III, and Dominic Tudor; sisters-in-law, Damaita Payton Smith, Dawnita Claycomb, Ravin Robertson, Dana LaRue, Felicia Tudor, and Davonna Thomas. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Charles, affectionately known as “Big Boy” or “Mud,” was truly one of a kind; unique in his own way. He was joyful, outgoing, and always himself. You never knew what he might say, but you could always count on him to bring laughter and light to any room. He was caring and giving, always willing to help family, friends, or even strangers. He was especially well known for his skill in auto repair. Charles often did not need to see a vehicle to diagnose its problem and had a remarkable ability to fix it. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and all who were blessed to know him. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and resilience will live on in the hearts of those who loved and cared for him. “Big Boy,” your earthly journey has come to an end, but your legacy will remain with us always. "Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."