Delbert Eugene Ayres

He died July 29, 2024, at Barnes Hospital from complications due to a surgical error.

Delbert was born to Everett and Levetta (Weller) Ayres on September 5, 1952.

Delbert was preceded in death by his precious parents Everett and Levetta Ayres, his beloved sister Margaret E. Keck, and his cherished nephew Keith Keck. Delbert is survived by his brother Everett (Joyce) Ayres, his sister Brenda (Paul) Niemaczek and many nieces and nephews whom he loved. He was extremely proud to be called their uncle.

Delbert married the love of his life and best friend Rebecca L. (Bain) Ayres on September 9, 1972. Together they had three beautiful children, Jason (Rebekah) Ayres, Jessica (Lance) Schmitz, Joshua (Jennifer) Ayres and six beautiful grandchildren, Skyler (Jessica) Daniel, Tristian (Sophia) Daniel, Cole Schmitz, Lyndsay Schmitz, Isabella Ayres, Adelina Ayres, and one great-granddaughter, Lillian Grace Daniel, all whom he cherished and dearly loved.

Delbert graduated from Collinsville High School and attended SWIC. He was a maintenance mechanic electrician and retired from Holton Meat Company in 2000.

Delbert enjoyed figuring out wiring diagrams to repair heavy machinery. He enjoyed repairing things that most would discard. He enjoyed sharing his passion with his children and grandchildren. Delbert was a great Papa to his grandchildren, making hovercrafts and science fair projects, taking them camping and fishing, and on roller coasters that he never should have been riding. He made them the best root beer floats and popcorn. He also made sure all his grandchildren went to Disney. You knew you were always loved, and Papa would always be there.

Delbert loved all people, he loved to help people, and he loved to teach people. He was a wonderful example to his family of unselfish generosity. Delbert was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on November 18, 1973 and attended the Local Congregation in Fairview Heights, Illinois.

Delbert’s love and Loyalty for Jehovah the true God was exemplary to the day he died. He enjoyed the opportunity to preach the Good News and to tell others of the future hope.

Delbert wholeheartedly cherished the time he spent with his family. He passionately loved his family. He didn’t want to leave his family. Delbert knew that it would only be a moment of sleep and he would be with his family again!

We will miss Our Husband, Father, Brother, and Papa.