It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Barbara Ann "Nana" May of Sheridan, WY — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
What you read below is one part of a life lived with quiet purpose.
A name is a small thing to hold a whole life.
Barbara Ann May, affectionately named Nana by all who knew her, 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on April 22nd, 2026. Nana was born on May 3rd, 1949, in Gloversville, New York to Howard and Dorothy May. Barbara was one of twelve children. She always carried a warm and vibrant spirit with her wherever life took her, especially when she came to call Sheridan her forever home.
Nana filled every room with joyous laughter and a natural grace that drew people together. She found joy in life's simple pleasures–from an exciting game of bingo to music that flowed through her, and most of all, her time spent surrounded by her loved ones. She lived the last few years at Riverwalk apartments lovingly dubbed the wrinkle ranch, spending time with her wonderful friends she made there.
Barbara's greatest pride and deepest love and joy were her children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren. She cherished each moment with them which created memories to hold close for generations. Her love was steady, generous, unconditional, and a constant presence in the lives of those who knew her best.
She will be remembered for her lively personality, kind heart, but most of all, her ability to make others feel at home. Whether she was sharing a laugh, telling a story, or enjoying her favorite pastime, Nana lived with a spirit that celebrated love and connection. She leaves behind a legacy of family, resilience, and joy.
Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to live on within the hearts of all who cherished her.
She is proceeded in death by father, Howard, mother, Dorothy, siblings; Ethal Lyons, Howard May Jr., Gladys Coppernull, John May, Phyllis McRedmond, Elizabeth Kane, Harry May, Jerry May, Paul May, and husband, Eligo Manzanares.
She is survived by her brothers; Lloyd and Roger (Shirley), numerous nieces and nephews, her children; Melanie (Jammer), Aaron (Shyda), Dorothy (Mark), and Michael (Brooke). Her grandchildren; Stephanie (Jeremy), Nick, Stevie, Kristin, Shylee, Dawson, Syler, Lawsen, Henley, Scarlett, Budd, Emmett, Jaemee, Paeton, Georgia, and Jasiah. Her great-grandchildren; Sebastian and Ella May.
A Celebration of Barbara's life will be held Friday, May 1st, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Champion Kane Funeral Home in Sheridan, WY. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the family to help celebrate this glowing, warm star of a woman.
If you are unable to attend please click on the link below.
https://boxcast.tv/view/funeral-service-for-barbara-may-jz8obd3t1l8obfefogg9
Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.
