Gary Ray Ayers, 69, of Princeton, WV, crossed over to the highway in the sky on December 15, 2024, at Beckley VA Medical Center following a brave battle with lung cancer.

Born November 10, 1955, Gary had a beautiful soul that radiated warmth and kindness. His light touched everyone he met. He was a source of joy and laughter, always aiming to make people smile with his delightful, and often cheeky jokes. A graduate of Princeton High School, he was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, spending time working on, collecting, and riding whenever he had the opportunity. He dedicated his career to auto body work, where his passion and skill shone brightly. He began with Ayers Custom Shop in Princeton, and moved around to many other shops and garages in the area. Gary was a proud United States Army Veteran who served overseas as a Combat Engineer and Blaster. He was a member of the Mercer County Honor Guard and also volunteered his time with other Veterans throughout the year.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Freeman and Bertie Ayers, sister Eva Ayers Lucado, brother Calvin Delp, son in law, William Gilbert, and great grandchild Noah Nelson.

Gary's legacy lives on through his loving and devoted wife of 47 years, Mary "Chris" Ayers, of the home; two children: Crystal Gilbert of Oakvale, Billy Ayers and wife Beth of Athens; five grandchildren: Bradley Nelson and wife Destiny of Princeton, Sabrina Nelson of Oakvale, Devyn Ayers and partner Christian Ballard of Athens, Robbie Munsey and partner Harleigh Morgan of Palestine, TX, and Jacey Estepp of Athens; three great-grandchildren: Samuel, Abigail, and Gabriel Nelson; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and his cherished fur babies Gypsy, Zoe, and Macy.

Per his wishes, Gary will be cremated with no services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Veterans of Mercer County or the Mercer County Animal Shelter. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Maria, and the other doctors and nurses who were by his side in his final days.

Online condolences may be shared via www.memorialfd.com . The Ayers family is being served by the Memorial Funeral Directory and Cremation Center on the Athens Road in Princeton.