Everett Leon Ayers, Jr., affectionately known as Leon, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, August 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love and lessons that will remain with his family and friends forever.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Everett Leon Ayers, Sr. and Shirley Porter Ayers.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Emma J. Ayers, who was the love of his life and his steadfast companion throughout their many years together. He is also survived by his sons, Chad Ayers and wife Kala of Austinville, VA and Josh Ayers and wife Magen of Max Meadows, VA; and his beloved grandchildren, Zoey, Bensyn, Parker and Adilyn. Leon is also survived by his siblings, Greg Ayers and wife Chris of Elk Creek, VA; Kevin Ayers and wife Crystal of Ivanhoe, VA; and Rhonda Arlene Ayers of Ivanhoe, VA, along with numerous extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Leon had a personality and a collection of interests that made him one of a kind. He was a fan of all things UVA and could always find time to follow his favorite teams. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, enjoying the peace, adventure and time spent outside.

When you couldn’t find Leon watching a game or enjoying the outdoors, you might have found him at a local Rook tournament. Those who knew Leon knew that he didn’t simply play Rook---he played to win. He had a competitive spirit and a knack for dominating the competition, creating plenty of memories and stories that will undoubtedly continue to be told for years to come.

In his younger years, he volunteered countless hours coaching his boys and their friends in elementary sports. He taught the fundamentals of the game, but his lessons went far beyond sports. He taught discipline, responsibility, perseverance, teamwork and the importance of doing things the right way. The boys he coached carried those lessons with them into adulthood, and his influence reached far beyond the playing field.

Leon also had a deep love for his animals, who were much more than pets---they were family. His beloved companion, Belle Belle, held a particularly special place in his heart. We are sure that when Leon arrived in his Heavenly resting place, Belle Belle was there waiting to greet her buddy once again.

Leon will be remembered for his competitive spirit, his love of the outdoors, his devotion to his family, his willingness to give his time to others, and the lessons he quietly passed along to those fortunate enough to know him. Most of all, he will be remembered as a husband, father, grandpa, brother, coach and friend whose presence made a lasting impact on the lives around him.

Though he is no longer here to cheer for UVA, cast a fishing line, head into the woods, sit down for a game of Rook, or spend time with the people he loved, the memories he created will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

His greatest legacy is not in the things he accomplished, but in the people he loved, the lives he touched and the lessons he left behind. Rest easy, Leon. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2026 at the Barnett Funeral Chapel with the Reverend Kent Lewis officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon until 2 p.m. service time. Burial will follow in West End Cemetery.

 Barnett Funeral Home, Wytheville, VA is serving the Ayers family.