With heavy hearts but a strong Christian faith, we announce the passing of John Thomas Ayers of Winston Salem, North Carolina, formerly of Macomb, Michigan on March 11, 2023 at the age of 64. After long and courageous battle with Thyroid cancer, John is finally healed and has gone home to be with Jesus.
John was born on December 20, 1958 in Flint, Michigan. He was one of six children born to Rolland Robert Ayers and Ruth Elinor Vanderpyle Ayers. He grew up in a loving and musical family, graduating from Swartz Creek High School. He worked in the Buick automotive factory for several years, but his true passion was serving in the church with music and youth.
On March 6, 1982, he married his childhood sweetheart Cathy Wright in Flint, Michigan. John continued to serve in the church but felt God calling him to do more.
John went on to earn a Bachelor of Music from Campbellsville University, and a Master Degree in Church Music from Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He was ordained to the Ministry from Central Baptist Church and God opened the door for him to serve as Music and Administration Minister at Warren Woods Baptist Church, which he faithfully served for 30 years.
John touched countless lives during his ministry. He directed an UPWARD Basketball program for over 350 children for 20 years, he directed a Community Adult Choir, Associational Adult choir, many musicals, directed the church orchestra, directed the praise and worship team and played many instruments. His favorite being the keyboard and drums. He performed both of his son’s weddings and many others. John led many adult and youth mission trips across the US. He was blessed to be able to go to Africa on mission trip.
After retiring from his “official” career ministry, God led him into other ministries outside of the church, still touching lives. John loved to golf, work on home projects, spend time with his family, play and take naps (he was a baby whisperer) with his 5 special grandbabies, who were the apple of his eye. He had a listening ear, had words of wisdom, and always made you feel like you came to the right place. He was humble, caring and kind and his passing has left a void that will forever change the lives of those he has touched.
John is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Cathy; sons Benjamin (Sarah) Ayers and Jacob (Shawna) Ayers; grandchildren Sophia Ayers, Eli Ayers, Ruby Ayers, Grayson Ayers and Lena Ayers; siblings, Kathi-Sue Speas, Beth (Bobby) Adams, Tammi (Jay) Parker, David Ayers, and Dawn (Tim) Messler; Nieces: Nephews; and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at the Westchester Baptist Church, 135 Westchester Drive, High Point, NC 27262 on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 1:00 pm. The family will greet friends prior to the service starting at 12:00.
In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes would be appreciated to the American Cancer Society or Gideon Bibles.
We find comfort in knowing that John is now at peace with the Lord, and we take solace in our faith that we will be reunited with him one day in heaven. Rest in peace, John, and thank you for your service to God, Family and the Community.
The family is under the care of Sechrest-Davis Funerals and Cremations of High Point. Online condolences: www.sechrestdavisphillipsavenue.com –select obituaries.
