The Philadelphia community is mourning the untimely death of a beloved native and former collegiate and high school student-athlete, George May Jr.
George May Jr. passed away earlier this week; his family hasn’t yet disclosed the details surrounding his untimely death.
A native of Pennsylvania, George May Jr. was a cherished member of the Philadelphia sports community and touched the lives of many with his kind and helpful nature.
The late George May left a lasting mark on the game of basketball, both at Bishop McDevitt High School and later at the University of Pennsylvania.
At Bishop McDevitt, May established himself as one of the program’s most reliable scorers during a competitive era.
He finished his high school career with 505 points over 52 games, averaging 9.7 points per game, placing him among McDevitt’s Top 15 Career Scorers from 1964–2021, including regular season and playoff performances.
His offensive production spanned multiple seasons, with steady growth and consistency that helped define his time with the Crusaders.
During the 1977–78 season, May contributed 131 points across 14 games, averaging 9.4 points per game.
He followed that with a strong 1979–80 campaign, scoring 208 points in 16 games for an average of 13.0 points per contest. In his final season, he added 166 points in 13 games, closing his high school career with a 12.8-point average.
Across those years, May competed alongside and against other notable scorers of the era, cementing his reputation as a dependable guard with scoring instincts and court awareness.
Standing 6-foot (183 cm), May played the guard position and carried his game to the collegiate level at the University of Pennsylvania, competing in the Ivy League. He suited up for the Quakers over four seasons from 1980–81 through 1983–84, appearing in 52 career games.
As a freshman in 1980–81, he appeared in 14 games, shooting 41.2% from the field and 57.1% from the free-throw line. His minutes remained limited throughout his college career, but he continued to contribute when called upon.
Over four seasons, he averaged 2.8 minutes per game, 0.8 points, 0.3 rebounds, and 0.3 assists, finishing his career with a 41.2% field-goal percentage and 35.5% from the free-throw line.
From being a high school scorer who helped elevate Bishop McDevitt’s program to earning the opportunity to compete at the Ivy League level, his journey reflected commitment, work ethic, and pride in the game.
The late George May remains remembered not only for where he ranked on scoring lists or the box scores he filled, but for the steady presence he brought to every team he represented.
A GoFundMe Has Been Created To Honor Late George May Jr.
The untimely death of George May Jr. has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Many of his loved ones are paying tribute to the late George and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
Furthermore, a GoFundMe has been created by his family to honor the late George May Jr’s legacy and cover his funeral and memorial services.
In a GoFundMe created by George’s son, Christopher May, he shared a heartfelt tribute to his late father, recalling him as his ‘hero, protector and best friend.’
Christopher shared that his late father sacrified everything for him, and struggled greatly at times, often putting his own needs aside just to keep a roof over the family’s heads while Chris matriculated through school.
The post reads:
“He carried the weight quietly, always choosing love, perseverance, and sacrifice so I could have a chance at a better future. His strength shaped who I am today.As we prepare to say goodbye, I am asking for support to help cover his funeral expenses so we can honor him in a way worthy of the life he lived and the love he gave. Any contribution—no matter the amount—will help ease this burden and allow us to celebrate him with dignity and respect.Thank you for your kindness, generosity, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time. It truly means more than words can express.”
GoFundMe
George May Jr.’s contribution to the Pennsylvania community as an exceptional athlete and a great father will always be remembered. His family will soon provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
