Billie Lou Ayers

Billie Lou Ayers, 85, went to her heavenly home on Thursday (February 22, 2018) after an extended illness. Billie was born on May 10, 1932 in Burnsville, NC to the late Bill & Lurene Buckner.

Billie earned her Master’s Degree in Education from East Tennessee State University, and was a dedicated 5th grade school teacher for more than 30 years at Sullivan and Rock Springs Elementary. She was a devoted member of Colonial Height Baptist Church for over half a century. Billie enjoyed gardening, quilting, was a champion bowler, and loved spending time with her family and friends. Billie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. To meet her, was to be her friend. She will be greatly missed.

In addition to her parents, Billie was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Ayers; and brother, Earl Buckner

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Left to cherish her memories are her daughter, Kim Vanderberg & husband Fanie; two sons, Edward Ayers & wife Abby and Steve Ayers; six grandchildren, Hannah Ayers, Nathaniel Ayers, Drew Pierce, Lee Pierce, Christopher Pierce, and Amanda Ayers; great step-granddaughter, Avery Meredith; and a host of friends.

The family will greet guests and share memories on Saturday (February 24, 2018) from 5 to 6 p.m. at East Lawn Funeral Home. A celebration of Billie’s life will follow at 6 p.m. in the chapel of East Lawn Funeral Home with Pastor Greg Burton officiating.

Billie will be entombed beside her beloved husband on Sunday (February 25, 2018) at 9 a.m. in Mausoleum II at East Lawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105; www.stjude.org; 800-873-6983).

Online condolences may be made to the Ayers family at www.eastlawnkingsport.com. East Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park has the honor of serving the Ayers family.