John Edward Ayers was born Sept. 6, 1945, and died peacefully at home on March 22, 2022, after a long illness.
He is survived by his wife, Verla Marshall, of Berryville, Ark.; daughter Phoebe Ayers of Somerville, Mass.; four siblings, Jane Hunt of Raleigh, N. Car., Susan Monk of Atlanta, Ga.; Bill Ayers and wife of Tyler, Texas; and Janet Hunt of Ardmore, Okla.; as well as cousin, Chuck Yates, and nieces and nephews Lisa Brenes, Sunshine Foster, Tony and Eric Bascus, Ryan and Ben Ayers.
He was predeceased by his parents, John and Irene Yates Ayers and his wife, Sally Jones Ayers.
John attended college in Norman, Okla. He was an artist, a master craftsman, companion and adventurer. He made paintings, photography, sculpture and jewelry.
He also served his country in the Army for several years and also the National Guard. He loved family, friends, animals, children, music, eating good food, fishing, camping and building community. He lived richly and well.
Gatherings to celebrate his life will be held Memorial Day weekend. Friends and family are invited to gather Saturday, May 28 at John and Verla’s home in the Grandview community, then on Sunday, May 29, at the Headwaters School in Red Star, Ark.