Edward Ayers, Jr.
August 22, 1939 – June 24, 2025
Chief Master Sergeant (Retired) Edward Leavern Ayers, Jr., age 85, peacefully entered eternal rest on Tuesday morning, June 24, 2025. He was surrounded by his loving family in his home in Owens Cross Roads. While we mourn his loss and feel a deep sense of sorrow at his passing, we take comfort in the belief that he is now in the presence of his loving Savior.
Affectionately known as “Bill” among family and friends, and esteemed as “Chief Ayers” by his colleagues, was a highly respected and decorated veteran of the United States Air Force. His unwavering dedication to service and commitment to excellence served as a profound source of inspiration for both his family and colleagues. The lasting impact he made on those fortunate enough to know him will be felt for years to come.
Chief Ayers graduated from Brookland Cayce High School in Cayce, South Carolina, in June 1958. His military journey began in February 1957 when he joined the South Carolina Air National Guard while still a junior in high school. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas in August 1957, followed by Air Traffic Control School in February 1959.
After graduating from technical training school, Chief Ayers rejoined the South Carolina Air National Guard as a full-time control tower technician with the 240th Mobile Communications Flight. He dedicated himself to this position until he voluntarily accepted a recall to active duty in April 1966. He dedicated 37 years to military service, which included both active duty and tenure with the South Carolina Air National Guard. He achieved the prestigious rank of Chief Master Sergeant on January 1, 1982. Following his retirement from the Air Force on August 31, 1994, he transitioned to a role as a Senior Air Space Manager with the Northeast Air Defense Sector and the New York Air National Guard, where he served for a decade. His exemplary dedication to the mission was particularly recognized for his outstanding contributions during the events of September 11, 2001.
Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Ayers was stationed at various locations both domestically and internationally, including Thailand, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Thule Greenland, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, Maryland, and New York. His significant contributions to the military and his community exemplify his strong character and unwavering commitment to his country.
On November 28, 1970, Chief Ayers married Carol Jean Conroy of Irthlingbororough, England, and together they cultivated a devoted and loving partnership that spanned fifty-four years until his passing. Bill was a committed husband, providing steadfast support to Carol throughout their life together. The couple raised two children, Kirstie and Karen, as well as Rodney from a previous marriage. As their family expanded, Bill embraced the cherished role of “Papa,” taking immense pride in being a nurturing and affectionate grandfather to his grandchildren: Aidan, Madeline, Theia, Gideon, Joshua, Jacob, and Kaitlyn, along with being a great-grandfather to Mackinsley, Beau and Baylee.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Carol; children, Kirstie, Karen, and Rodney; grandchildren, Aidan, Madeline, Theia, Gideon, Joshua, Jacob, and Kaitlyn; great grand children Mackinsley, Beau, and Baylee.
As we remember Chief Ayers, we celebrate his life, his contributions, and the legacy he leaves behind. Though he will be profoundly missed, his spirit will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
Flowers are appreciated and the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, in memory of CMSgt (Retired) Edward L. Ayers, Jr.
There will be short service in remembrance of his life on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the New Hope Funeral Home. Chaplain Larry D. Layne, Retired Air National Guard, will officiate. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00pm to 2:00pm prior to the start of the service.
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