Obituary of Bobby Lee Ayers

Bobby Lee Ayers, 88, of Roanoke went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 25, 2023 surrounded by family.  He fought hard for years after having a stroke and has finally won the battle.

Bobby was born June 13, 1934 in Rockbridge County, VA.  He was predeceased by his parents, Les and Ila Ayers; brothers, Ray, Nelson, and Milton Ayers; brother-in-law, Buddy Hedge; and his precious daughter, Karen Ayers.

Surviving is his devoted wife of 68 years, Phyllis Hedge Ayers; son, David Ayers; daughters, Connie Ayers Lambert (Butch), and Cheryl Ayers.  Bobby loved being Pawpaw for his grandchildren, Dustin Johnson (Molly), Katie Johnson, Tanner Lambert (Reganne); and great grandchildren, Vaughn Johnson, Fulton and Clara Lambert.  Also surviving are two sisters-in-law, Shirley H. Mills, and Brenda Hedge; many nieces and nephews and two very special friends, Steve Frye and Robert Sledd.

Bobby was a faithful member of the Hollins Road Church of the Brethren, where he served for many years as a Deacon and on various committees.  He was employed for 41 years as a yard fireman and engineer with Norfolk and Southern Railway.  He will be remembered for his devotion to his wife and family.  He was always the life of the party and he lit up a room with his sense of humor and had an uncanny ability to make anyone laugh.  His hobbies included Par 3 golf at Brookside with friends and family, a love of trains, and family card games.

The family wishes to thank the Carilion Hospice team for their exceptional care.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hollins Road Church of the Brethren P O Box 12567 Roanoke, VA  24026.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Simpson Funeral Home 5160 Peters Creek Road with Pastors Harold Boyd and Horace Light officiating.  Interment will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.  The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Simpson Funeral Home.  540-366-0707