May Family (2009)

The May family opened their first Oklahoman menswear store in Tulsa in 1908.  In March 1910, H.M. and son Ben opened their second store in Bartlesville in the recently completed Johnstone building at the corner of third (now Frank Phillips Boulevard) and Johnstone Avenue.  From the very beginning, the family became actively involved in the civic life of the community.

Through several generations, the May family has served in a variety of volunteer roles, including work with Boy Scouts, Kiwanis, Chamber of Commerce, YMCA, USO, and the American Legion. As Ben’s grandson Mike assumed operation of Mays Brothers from his father, Jake, in 1975, he dedicated his time to worthwhile causes like Rotary, Hillcrest Country Club, and Jane Phillips Hospital.

Mike’s wife, Marty, also served the community through a variety of organizations, including Service League, the Boys and Girls Club, the Landmark Preservation Council, the Price Tower Arts Center, and the Friends of the Frank Phillips Home.  The couple also raised four sons in Bartlesville.