Mason McKinley Ayers

Mason McKinley Ayers, 84, of Narrows, VA., was born October 4, 1938, in Bluefield, WV to Robert Mason Ayers and Daisy Marie Brooks Ayers.  He passed away Sunday, January 29, 2023, at his home with his family by his side after a short battle with cancer.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Ginger Reed, brother, Bobby Ayers and great granddaughter, Delaney Faithe Crowder Bishopriggs, who was the light of his life.  Mason graduated from Narrows High School in 1956 where he excelled in both football and basketball.  He was employed at the Celanese Corp. in Narrows for 43 years and later worked for J.B. Buckland Pharmaceuticals.  He was an avid fan of all sports, coaching and refereeing little league football and basketball.  He also enjoyed racing and drove the 02 Chevrolet at the Pulaski County Speedway for several years.  He enjoyed camping with his wife, especially in the Great Smokey Mtns. and spending time with family and friends and being involved in the many activities and sporting events of his grandchildren.  Mason attended Olean Church of the Brethren in Ripplemead where he often volunteered to lead the service as a Lay Leader.  He loved the Lord and used every opportunity he had to witness to others.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Barbara Ayers of Narrows, daughters, Kimley Ayers Bay (Tom) of Princeton, WV, Jamie Ayers Crowder of Narrows, former son-in-law, Jeff Crowder of Lexington, grandchildren, Brookley Summer Crowder of Lexington, Evan Thomas Bay and Alexandra Michelle Bay Hatfield (Matt) both of Princeton, WV.  He is also survived by his siblings, Faye Lester (Doug), Brenda Woodward, Grace Glass (Tim), Merle Ayers (Susan) and Joetta Davis (Ted) along with numerous nieces, nephews and devoted friends, Bill Riddle, Rawhide Lambert, Bob Frazier and Betsy McNew.  A Celebration of Life will be held at the Givens – Riffe Funeral Chapel, 600 Main St, Narrows, VA, Friday, February 3, 2023, at 2pm with Betsy McNew officiating.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home 1 hour before the service from 1 – 2pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Giles County Animal Shelter, 678 Green Hollow Rd., Pearisburg, VA 24134 in memory of Mason.  The family is being served by Givens – Riffe Funeral Service in Narrows, (540) 726-2442, and online at riffefuneralservice.com.

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