Betsy Ann Simmons Ayers

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 24, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Alex Simmons and Henrietta Janicke Massie. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, David Simmons.

Betsy was a woman of remarkable creativity and artistic talent who found great joy in making beautiful things with her hands. She was especially gifted in ceramics and quilting, creating pieces that reflected both her imagination and her attention to detail. Whether working on a ceramic project, piecing together a quilt, or finding another creative outlet, Betsy had a natural ability to turn simple materials into something special. Her creations were an expression of the warmth and personality she brought to everything she did.

She was equally talented in the kitchen and was known as an amazing cook. Preparing meals for her family brought her great happiness, particularly during the holidays when good food, family, and tradition came together around her table.

For 50 years, Betsy served as a school bus driver, spending most of her career with Amherst County Public Schools before retiring. She also served as a bus driver trainer for 30 years, sharing her experience and knowledge with generations of drivers. During the final 15 years of her career, Betsy drove a special needs school bus, a role she found especially meaningful and fulfilling. Betsy had a genuine love for children, and over the course of her long career she touched the lives of countless young people. She cared deeply for the children entrusted to her, and many came to know her not simply as their bus driver, but as a familiar, caring presence in their lives.

Above all, Betsy’s greatest devotion was to her family. Being a good mother was extremely important to her, and she took great pride in loving, caring for, and supporting her children throughout their lives. That same love extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and to the many children whose lives she touched over the years. She was lovingly known as “Nanny” by all of her grandchildren, a name that held a special place in her heart. The memories she created through family gatherings, holiday meals, handmade treasures, and countless everyday moments will remain a lasting part of her legacy.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Lloyd Ayers; two sons, Lloyd Ayers, Jr. and his wife, Tiffany, and Christopher Ayers and his wife, Michelle; one daughter, Karen Ayers; two sisters, Leah Lovell and Esther Cash; ten grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and her best friend, Lula Perry.

Betsy loved the color red, and in celebration of her life and vibrant spirit, the family invites her friends to honor her by wearing red to the service.

A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2026, at Whitten Monelison Chapel with the Rev. Donald Bailey, Jr. officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service until 4:00 p.m.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Monelison Volunteer Rescue Squad or bile duct cancer research at UVA Medical Center.