George Washington Ayres

George Washington Ayres, retired Air Force Master Sergeant, returned to his heavenly home in the early hours of October 2, 2017. His devout faith in God and belief in everlasting life helped him pass peacefully surrounded by his family.

George was born in Philadelphia, PA on July 13, 1948 to the late George and Mabel Ayres; his love and affection for his parents was immeasurable and a huge contributor to the man he became. Their unwavering faith in God and scripture not only influenced him but continues to guide his family.

Mr. Ayres enlisted into the United States Air Force in 1968 and served his country through sacrifice and mentoring countless new enlistees on the expectations of military service. He retired in 1988 as the Commandant of the Preliminary Military Education facility on Luke AFB as a highly respected NCO, including endorsements from top Air Force leaders.

George was blessed with a large and loving family. He fell in love with his best friend, Karen Fischer and was married on September 20, 1969. Karen never failed to be his true love and her selfless commitment to him and his family has been awe inspiring.

George is survived by Karen Fischer, and their four children, Jonathan (Kim), Rebecca (Charles “CJ” Tighe, Jr.) Meggan (Danny), and Aimee. He was also blessed with six grandchildren who love him dearly, Adrian, McKenzie, Tyler, Brianna, Emily and Stephen; as well as two sisters he adores, Renee D’Amore (Joseph, Jr.) and Deborah Waller-Hayes (Steve.)

Mr. Ayres and his family received a miracle the day they found Harvard House of Care, Goodyear, AZ. J.R. and Lily welcomed him from day one and he became a part of their family. He trusted and loved them. They ensured his last stages of life were ones filled with respect, unconditional caring, and true sincerity. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. And Don, George’s roommate…you will never know how much it meant to us having someone that looked out for him. All of you are amazing people.

From our family to all of those who have provided love and support, it has meant the world.

Thompson Funeral Chapel will be administering services held next door at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 918 S Litchfield Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85338 on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at 10:30 am. Burial proceedings with full military honors will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024 immediately following the service.