A service honoring the life and legacy of Marie Hunter Gruner Ayres will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home in Shreveport, Louisiana, at 11:00 a.m.. Officiating the ceremony will be her nephew, Rev. Derrick Stevenson of Shreveport. Interment will follow at Centuries Memorial Park. The family warmly welcomes friends and loved ones to gather for visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on the morning of the service.
Marie was born on April 17, 1937, in the close-knit Hunter Community near Mansfield, Louisiana, and peacefully entered into the arms of her Heavenly Father on June 9, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by those who loved her most in Shreveport.
A proud graduate of Fair Park High School, Class of 1955, Marie went on to attend Ayers Business School, where she earned a degree in Secretarial Science. She dedicated many years to the Caddo Parish School Board as a valued secretary before retiring. Marie’s circle of friends extended far and wide—from her archery club companions and tournament buddies to cherished fellowship within the congregations of Magnolia, Ingleside, Summer Grove, and Koran Baptist Churches.
To know Marie was to be loved by her. Affectionately known as “Memaw,” she was the heart and soul of her family—full of warmth, kindness, joy, and an unwavering faith. Her home was always filled with laughter, the aroma of home-cooked meals, and open arms ready to embrace anyone who walked through her door. She left an indelible mark on the lives she touched and leaves behind a legacy of love, stories, and smiles that will be cherished forever.
Marie shared 34 beautiful years of marriage with the love of her life, Edward Harmon Ayres, Jr. Together, they created a life full of music, faith, and friendship. As longtime members of Koran Baptist Church, they were well-known for singing "Happy Birthday" to fellow members by phone—a joyful tradition that brought smiles year-round. The couple also opened an archery business on Lake Bistineau, where they formed lasting friendships and helped raise their grandchildren amid nature’s beauty and the comforts of home.
Marie found joy in prayer and was honored to lead many spiritual moments at The Guest House, where she was lovingly cared for by dear friends Crystal and Rhonda. Her love for others and deep faith in the Lord never wavered, and her spirit inspired all who knew her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Willie B. Hunter, Sr. and Ethel OG Dick Hunter—both of the Hunter Community in DeSoto Parish—as well as her brother, Willie B. Hunter, Jr., and her devoted husband, Harmon.
Left to treasure her memory are her loving son, Mark Hunter Gruner (Kandace), of Shreveport; her adored grandchildren Audri Gruner-Alford, Sarah Windham (Joey), Taylor Wentzel (James), and Gunner Gruner (BreAnna); and great-grandchildren Kyler Alford, Kalyn Alford, Weston Hardy, Hannah Kate Windham, Gabe Silvas, Ellie Rae Wentzel, and Grant Wentzel. She is also survived by her beloved sisters, Susan Hunter Stevenson (Bill) and Nancy Hunter Dumas, both of Keithville, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Weston Hardy, Joey Windham, Gunner Gruner, James Wentzel, Kevin Stevenson, Bailey Stevenson, Brock Stevenson, Devin Dumas, Howie Dumas and Kyler Alford.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Michael and Sherry Wilson, Christina Loftin, and Cashara Jones for their love, care, and support.
Marie Hunter Gruner Ayres “Memaw” lived a life of purpose, love, and joy—and the world is brighter because she was in it. Her radiant smile, compassionate heart, and uplifting spirit will never be forgotten. John 3:16
