Fay LeRoy Mavity

Fay LeRoy Mavity was born on August 27, 1937 in Norcatur, Kansas, in the family home. Family history has it that his birth was in the middle of a dust storm. The second born of three children in a time before ultrasounds and gender reveal parties, his mother, Edyth Catherine Mavity (nee Ward) had her heart set on this child being “Faye” and only conceded to drop the “e”. Fay smiled throughout his whole life retelling the tale of how he came to have his name. That he used it whole life is a testament to the love he had for his mama.

Fay grew up under the loving guidance of his parents, Joseph and Edyth Catherine (Ward) Mavity, both of whom predeceased him, as did his brother, Jay Mavity. Despite the loss of his immediate family over the years, Fay's spirit never wavered. He was a source of strength and comfort to his surviving sister, Judy Jo (Mavity) Eilts of Fresno, California.

Fay graduated from La Crosse High School in 1955 before entering into the United States Navy that year. He served 3 years active duty, setting a multi-generational tradition of serving in the military. Post-service, he found his love of diesel mechanics working for a couple of companies before joining MHC Kenworth in 1969. Working for Kenworth was not only his livelihood but also his community and his hobby in his later years. Fay worked for MHC Kenworth for 52 years when he retired in 2021 at 84 years old.

Fay met his wife, Betty Jane Wilburn, in Kansas while her car was broken down on the side of the road and she had her head under the hood when he pulled over to help. The impact she had on him lasted the rest of his life. They were married on April 27, 1963 and settled in the Denver area within the year. Together, they raised a family that included their daughter, Jackie Lee (Mavity) Gorman, and son, Robert Leo Mavity, both of whom Fay outlived. His legacy continues through his granddaughter, Elizabeth Robin Mavity, and her son, Trenton Ryan Mavity, Fay's loved great-grandson, both of Lochbuie, CO, as well as his grandson, Scott Ryan Gorman of Aurora, CO.

Fay was devoted to his family throughout his life and was the cornerstone of the family through three generations. Fay always had a twinkle in his eye, a smile not absent for long, and a teasing nature with a desire to share the laughter with those around him. He lived a life marked by support, friendship, loyalty, and respect. Fay was a testament to the happiness that comes from loving one woman for an entire lifetime.

As we bid farewell to Fay LeRoy Mavity, we remember a man whose life was a portrait of dedication—to his country, his work, and most importantly, to his family. Fay's warm smile and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His influence will live on in the values he instilled in his family and the countless memories cherished by friends and loved ones.

Fay's journey on earth has ended, but his story continues through the lives he touched. We take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, reunited with his beloved wife, free from the ailments that marked his final years. Fay will forever be remembered as a man who embodied the very best of us, and his legacy will endure through the generations that follow.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Fay LeRoy Mavity, please visit our floral store.