Johnnie Leslie Ayers

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Johnnie Ayers (John) at his home In Hobe Sound, Florida on November 27, 2024, at the age of 79. John met the love of his life and beloved wife, Rosemary, 58 years ago. Along with his wife he is survived by his two children, John William Ayers of Colorado and his daughter, Uraina Bryant of Florida. He is also survived by five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

John was born in Galax, Virginia to Leslie and Louise Ayers on May 2, 1945. Both of his parents are deceased. John knew very quickly that leaving the mountains was his chance for his future to take place. He went in the Army at the age of seventeen served 4 years and grew up fast learning to shoot, parachute out of planes and learn all about radio communication during the Vietnam War. While in the Army John was able to get his high school diploma and earn an Associate Degree in Philosophy. After serving in the Army John worked in the construction trades as a carpenter out of the Carpenters Union in Philadelphia and later as a Concrete Superintendent in Chestertown, Md.

John was known for his strong will, unwavering determination, and love and support for his family, friends, and community. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and scuba diver enthusiast. He and Rosemary traveled all over the United States, the Bahamas and Europe where he also served while in the Army. He loved working with the veterans through many positions through the VA system and served as An All American District Commander and An All American District Quartermaster in the Veterans of Foreign Wars District 11. In 2012-2013 he was the first District Commander in District 11’s history to make All American, an acknowledgement from National VFW that he was so proud of.

John will be truly missed by his family and friends and by those who he gave counsel to when he was a service officer and volunteer at the West Palm Beach VA.

Services will be held at Aycock, Prill and Young Funeral Home on US 1 in Stuart, Florida on December 8 and 9. A viewing will be held Sunday evening, December 8 from 5-7 PM. Services will be held Monday, December 9 from 9:30-10:30 followed by visitation and a catered lunch from 10:30 to 12:00. Following the services burial and military honors will be completed at Lake Worth National Cemetery at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that you support NVHS, National Veterans Homeless Support, (Help for Homeless Veterans | National Veterans Homeless Support) as they make a difference to support homeless veterans and families of veterans at risk of becoming homeless.