Ray Ayers

Walter Ray Ayers, 69, of Statesville, passed away, Friday, June 24, 2011 at Iredell Memorial Hospital following a lengthy illness. Mr. Ayers was born Nov. 25, 1941 in Iredell County and was the son of the late James W. Ayers and Dorothy Davidson Ayers. He was a graduate of Iredell County Schools and on Sept. 27, 1997, was married to Penny Bowers Ayers, who survives of the home. He was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church and was employed by Hiddenite Mobile Homes. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, Keith Ayers (Donna) of Troutman, Jackie Ayers (Jenny) of Orlando, FL, Scottie Ayers of New York, one daughter, Tonya Ayers of Statesville, one step-daughter, Donna Mayberry (Doug) of Statesville, one step-son, John Tom Cartner of Statesville, seven grandchildren, Daniel Ayers, Charity Mayberry, Lauren Cartner, Davie Alex Cartner, Isiah Cartner, Jayden Cartner, Aliza Cartner, one brother, Rev, Steve Ayers (Kay) of Statesville, one sister, Janice Oneal (Monte) of Troutman and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one son, Randy Ayers. Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 27, 2011 at the Tabernacle Baptist Church with Rev. Steve Ayers, Rev. Curtis White and Rev. Jesse Stroud officiating. Burial will follow in the Iredell Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Sunday evening 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.