Donald T. Ayers

Donald Turner Ayers, age 73, of McPherson, Kansas, completed his life’s journey on earth on Saturday, September 8, 2018, while surrounded by family members at McPherson Hospital in McPherson, Kansas. He was a heavy equipment operator at NCRA Refinery where he worked for 37 years. He also drove cars for Midway Motors.

Donnie, as family and friends called him, was born in Wichita, Kansas on August 19, 1945. He and his brother David were born to the late William T. and Margaret (Hall) Ayers. He graduated from McPherson High School and later attended McPherson College and Emporia State University. He lived in McPherson all his life except for two years he spent working in Nebraska in the late 1960s.

Donnie put the needs of his family and friends above his own, willingly caring for family members when they needed his help. He oversaw the welfare of his daughter, his mother, and several uncles, and was always ready to help friends as well. He gave to others unconditionally and did not expect anything in return.

Donnie was an active member of the B.A.S.S. Club for many years, enjoying competitive fishing all over the country. He also participated in a local bowling league, and won many trophies. In addition, he enjoying working in his garden, playing cards, traveling, discovering good places to eat, and discussing a wide range of topics.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents and his brother.

He is survived by: his wife, Sue Copass Ayers, of McPherson, Kansas; a daughter, Lana Ayers-Kirkley and her husband, Martin Kirkley, of Topeka, Kansas; a granddaughter, Valerie Osborn, of Wichita, Kansas; a stepdaughter, Angela Craig and her husband, Donovan Craig, of Charlotte, North Carolina; two step-grandchildren, Claire and Ben Craig, of Charlotte, North Carolina, and other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 13, 2018, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the family present to receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Stockham Family Funeral Home in McPherson, Kansas. The graveside service will be held at the McPherson Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 14, with Rev. Lynn Scott officiating.

While flowers are appreciated, in lieu of those, memorial contributions may be given to either the McPherson County Humane Society or the American Heart Association in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. Personal condolences may be sent to the family at www.stockhamfamily.com.

Pallbearers will be Harry Ensminger (honorary), Byron Woolley (honorary), Steve Bersuch, Bob Brazell, Steve Hanson, Martin Kirkley, Jeremy Louser, and Quincy Taylor. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Donald T. Ayers please visit our Sympathy Store.