Joe Kent Ayers

Mr. Joe Kent Ayers, Jr., 68, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026. He was born on October 30, 1957, in Greenville, South Carolina, to the late Joe Kenneth Ayers and Lois Bryson Ayers.

Joe was a retired Systems Analysist who worked in the financial industry with the Federal Reserve Bank. He was a knowledgeable and curious person who possessed a genuine appreciation for history. One of his greatest interests was Civil War history. Joe enjoyed learning about Civil War battles, artifacts and locations and was a true history buff who appreciated preserving the stories and treasures of the past. Joe also had a passion for art, having created many ink, pencil and charcoal landscapes and portraits.

Joe also had a special connection to Shirley Hills Baptist Church, where he grew up. Throughout his life, the church remained a meaningful part of his family and his memories. He especially enjoyed taking his mother, Lois, to church and spending that time together.

Joe was surrounded by family members and friends who held a special place in his heart. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved mother, Lois Ayers; his sister, Sandra Jones; his brother-in-law Michael Jones, his uncle, Clyde Bryson, his best friend, Christopher Taylor; and a host of cherished friends and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Kenneth Ayers.

Joe will be remembered for his love of art, history, the Civil War, his loyalty to those close to him, and the special memories he created with his family and friends. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A visitation for friends and family will be on Saturday September 12, 2026 between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. A funeral service honoring the life of Mr. Ayers will follow in the chapel of Heritage Memorial Funeral Home, Saturday September 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Burial will immediately take place at Parkway Memorial Gardens.