John L. May was born on March 31, 1922, in Illinois. He was raised in Evanston by his parents, Peter and Catherine. As a young man, he felt a calling to the priesthood and began his studies in the 1940s at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein.
After completing his theological studies, John L. May was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest. He dedicated his life to serving the Church and its followers, becoming known for his dedication to racial harmony and inclusivity.
In 1980, John L. May was appointed as the Archbishop of St. Louis, Missouri, by Pope John Paul II. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to promote social justice and equality within the Church and the wider community.
One of Archbishop May's most significant achievements was ordaining J. Terry Steib as St. Louis' first African American auxiliary bishop. This act of inclusivity and equality was a reflection of his deep commitment to racial harmony and social justice.
Throughout his time as Archbishop of St. Louis, John L. May was known for his compassionate leadership and tireless advocacy for the marginalized and oppressed. His legacy continues to inspire and guide those who strive for a more just and equitable society.
John L. May passed away on December 24, 1994, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and dedication to social justice. His impact on the Catholic Church and the wider community continues to be felt to this day, serving as a reminder of the power of one individual to effect positive change in the world.