Mr. Mark Ayers

Mark Ayers, a man of profound passion and gentle intelligence, passed away on July 13, 2025, in San Antonio, TX, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on November 6, 1955, in Carrizo Springs, TX, Mark’s life was a testament to the enduring power of love, creativity, and education.

Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ellen Santee Hanson Traweek Ayers Blackard; his father, Milton (Red) Cowart Ayers; and his brothers, Phillip Traweek and John Ayers. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication in his wife, Pam Ayers; his daughter, Marion Ayers; and his siblings, Jim and Lili Traweek, Roxann Langston, Kathy and Doug Beauchamp, Paula and Kent Lauderdale, and Lacy Marie and Mark Mortenson.

Mark could be described as the kind of man who lit up a room. He was a proud graduate of the School of Theater and Dance at Texas Tech University, where he studied under the direction of Dr. Forrest Newlin. Even early in his theater career, Mark was a man who stood his ground, a solid presence for anyone who knew him. The lessons he learned from Dr. Newlin shaped not only his approach to theater but to life.

Though his career took a non-traditional path, it was certainly explosive, literally. Mark spent 11 memorable years at SeaWorld San Antonio, working with lasers, lighting, and pyrotechnics. During that time, he somehow also found time to get married and welcome a daughter into the world.

His next adventure came unexpectedly when he became a teacher, a role in which he truly shined. For 20 years, he served as a mentor and guiding force for the students of the North East School of the Arts (NESA), known affectionately as the "NESA Techies." For them, he became what Dr. Newlin had once been for him: a steady, inspiring presence. His mentorship and care gave countless students the confidence and opportunity to thrive. Whether they pursued careers in technical theater or something entirely different, Mark’s famous “Ayers-isms” remained close to their hearts.

In retirement, Mark rededicated himself to the Masonic brotherhood, a path he had first entered earlier in life. Though he was honored to receive the Golden Trowel, the highest recognition a Mason can earn, it was his love for the brotherhood and the values it stood for that meant the most to him. His spiritual beliefs served as a foundation of strength and serenity, guiding him through each season of life. He took great joy in traveling, both near and far, to continue his learning within the Masonic community.

As we say goodbye to Mark, we are reminded of the words of William Shakespeare: “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” Mark played his role on this earthly stage with grace, brilliance, and heart. Though his final lights have dimmed, his memory will forever be a blessing in the hearts of those who loved him.

A graveside service is scheduled for July 22, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at Temple Beth-El Memorial Park, 1715 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78218.

A celebration of life will take place on July 22, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap Pl, San Antonio, TX 78212.

In lieu of flowers, the Ayers family requests donations in Mark's memory be directed to the Scottish Rite Learning Center in San Antonio. They do not accept online donations, so please mail a check to the address below.

Scottish Rite Learning Center

308 Avenue E

San Antonio, Texas 78205

Check Payable to: Scottish Rite Learning Center

Please put in the memo line: In memory of Mark Ayers

If you prefer to make a donation online, you can alternatively use the QR code below to donate to the Scottish Rite for Children’s Hospital in Dallas, TX.

https://secure3.convio.net/tsrh/site/Donation2?idb=1465388023&1400.donation=form1&df_id=1400&mfc_pref=T&idb=0