John "Jack" Ayers

Barton, MD

John William “Jack” Ayers, 89 of Barton, passed away on February 2, 2017 at Potomac Valley Hospital, Keyser, WV.

Born June 7, 1927, he was the son of the late George Washington and Della Mae (Dye) Ayers. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Naomi “Dutchie” Ayers, a grandson, Stephen C. Smith, his sisters, Alice Carney, Helen O’Neil and Lula Martin. He is also preceded in death by numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, and a truly special lady and companion, Kathleen Laughlin.

Jack attended Barton High School. He was a life-long member of the Barton United Methodist Church. He was a 60 year member of the Grand Lodge AF & AM Maryland, serving Allegany Lodge #157 as a past Master for six terms and continued through George’s Creek Valley Masonic Lodge #161 AF & AM. Jack was a Barton American Legion Post #189 life-time member. He was also a member of the Scottish Rites since 1957.

After high school, Jack started working at the Celanese which he left in 1944 to join the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. After returning from his service, he married the love of his life, “Dutchie”. He joined his father in the coal mining business until his father’s death. Jack deep mined for 20 years and then began surface mining for 20 more years. He started Bakerstown Coal Company which later became Ayers Coal Company. After retiring, he and “Dutchie” were able to travel. They loved to travel and were able to visit all 50 states.

Jack enjoyed working in his garden, fishing and hunting with friends. He even traveled to Montana and brought home a big elk. Family always came first in Jack’s life. He worked very hard to provide for his family. Jack was always there to help and always made time for everyone. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He truly was a great, loving and caring man, whose big smile and kind heart will be missed forever.

Jack is survived by his daughter, Tammy Smith and husband, Steve of Barton; his grandson, Derek Smith of Westernport; and his great grandsons, Sean and Aiden Smith. He is also survived by his brother, George Ayers and wife, Norma of Barton; his sister, Jennnie Metz of Baltimore; numerous nieces and nephews, whom held a special place in his heart; his caregiver, Sherry Shaw; and his special friend, Estella Kitzmiller.

Family and friends will be received at the Boal Memorial Chapel, Barton on Sunday, February 5th from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm. A memorial service by the Barton American Legion Post #189 will begin at 3:00pm. A memorial service held by the George’s Creek Valley Masonic Lodge #161 AF & AM will begin at 7:00pm. A funeral service will be held at the Barton United Methodist Church on Monday, February 6th at 11:00 am with Pastor Sandy Cowan officiating.

Interment will be in Mt. View Cemetery, Barton.