Walter Ray Ayers

Walter Ray Ayers, age 93 of West Manchester, passed away on Saturday January 20, 2018 into the Heavenly gates. He has joined his beloved wife Elizabeth (Betty) Ayers to share eternity. Ray was born September 29, 1924 the son of the late Walter Frank Ayers and Cora (Paxson) Ayers. He is preceded in death by Sisters Louise, Dorothy, Juanita, Ruth and Brother Donald Ayers. He also is preceded in death by a granddaughter Linda Lou Stephens. Ray is survived by one brother, Fred Ayers, 7 children, Pamela (Edward) Wilt, Richard Pastor, Pamela (Asa) Hazelwood, Linda (Mike) Hardymon, Tina (Kevin) Kinsinger, Lisa Ayers and Kevin (Laura) Ayers. He also was blessed with 15 Grandchildren, 29 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great-great Grandchildren. Ray was a WWII and Korean Navy veteran. He was honored to serve his country and continued his dedication in the American Legion Post 665, VFW, DAV and Preble County Honors Guard. He was a past commander of Legion Post 665 and served as asst. Sgt. of arms for the 3rd districts. He was long time machinist in trade with Dayton Tire & Rubber Company. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in West Manchester for over 60 years. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, January 25, 2018 at the Girton Schmidt & Boucher Gard Funeral Home, 226 West Main Street, Eaton with Pastor Terry Campbell officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery, West Alexandria with military honors provided by the Preble County Honor Guard. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #665, West Manchester or Preble County Honor Guard. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.gsbfuneralhome.com.