Born January 18, 1933 in Smackover, AR he was the son of John Thomas Ayres and Grace Helen Hill. He was a graduate of LA Tech University with a degree in chemistry and received a PhD, in analytical chemistry, from Florida State University. He had been employed by International Paper, DuPont Co. and had been a chemistry professor at South Arkansas University. In 1975 he retired from Great Lakes Chemical after 25 years employment.
James married Sally Kay Wentzell on June 23, 1963. He was baptized into the Jehovah's Witness faith in 1976 and became a full time minister in 1984, and continued as such until his death.
Preceding him in death along with his parents and wife was a daughter, Alisa Ann McCoy, a son, John Raymond Ayres, a brother, Donald Leon Stone and son-in-law, Donnie Johnson.
Survivors include daughters, Connie Lynn Martin (James) and Debra Susan Johnson along with a son Gary Lee Ayres (Nancy) along with 22 grandchildren, 25 great-great grandchildren, 3 great, great, great grandchildren and his furry companion, Baby Cat.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in the El Dorado Conference Center, 311 S. West Avenue. Cremation services entrusted to Young's Funeral Directors.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.
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