Jessie James Ayers Jr. died peacefully on Dec. 25, 2024, at the age of 90. Heritage Funeral Home has charge of arrangements.
Born Oct. 1, 1934, to Dorthy McKissick and Jessie James Ayers in Topsey. He lived a life marked by service, dedication and selflessness.
Soon after graduating from Copperas Cove High School, he married Belva Jean Manning in 1956.
Jessie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served his country with honor. He was stationed in Korea, where he earned the rank of sergeant and exemplified courage and commitment.
After his military service, Jessie worked various jobs including welder and mechanic. He also devoted 12 years of his life to the Austin Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of lieutenant, demonstrating leadership and commitment to community.
Jessie’s legacy is best described by the words “True devotion lies in giving yourself fully to the well-being of others.” His life embodied this sentiment. Jessie was always ready to lend a helping hand or give his last dime to someone in need. However, it was his unwavering support of his ailing wife, Belva, that stands as his most remarkable act of love. Throughout her long illness, Jessie remained her constant caregiver.
He is survived by his children John Ayers, Sharon Herbst and husband Dennis, and Jeanne Ayers; grandchildren Kelly and Zach Criddle, Jennifer Ayers, Jeremy Ayers, Jordan and Jordy Herbst, and Jessie and Wyatt Inderman; greatgrandchildren Wren Criddle, James Ayers and Ada Herbst; siblings Donald Ayers, Geraldine Hays and Carolyn Buchanan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife Belva; sons Eric Ayers, James Ayers and Paul Ayers; and siblings Floyd Ayers, Betty Gebert, Emily Gilmore, Margret Knox and Ronald Ayers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests giving the gift of time by visiting residents at a local nursing home.
