Diane M. Ayers

Diane Marie (Dougherty) Ayers of the Brook in Boyne City, Michigan passed on February 4, 2024 at the age of 81.

Diane was born October 17, 1942 to the late LaBerta Estella (Holm) Martin and Henry Dougherty.

Diane married Victor Ayers on June 4, 1960 and had 4 children from their union. She worked in factories in her early years. The love she had for children led her to Charlevoix Emmet Intermediate School District where she worked as a transporter and then as a paraprofessional in the classroom. Her sincere care and concern for her students went beyond the classroom. Her heart was kind and true. She was known for her love, strength, and generosity. It was not uncommon for Diane and Victor to invite, or people into their home who needed a place to stay and regroup, or give an encouraging word or helping hand, be it a neighbor, co-worker, friends or family.

In their retirement years Diane and Victor enjoyed many winters in Florida. First with Victor’s parents and then on their own. After that, Diane went back to work as a cashier one and of her favorite jobs was at Kmart in Petoskey because of the many friends she made there. Even after Kmart’s closing her former work crew would gather together for lunch and reminisce and visit.

She is preceded by her husband, Victor Ayers, stepmother, Irene Doughtery, sister, Darlene Dougherty, son, Calvin Ayers and stepdaughter Linda (Ayers) Mally.

She is survived by her son, Tracy Ayers, daughter, Angela Ayers (George Grundner) son, Terry Ayers (Sherri Martinez), stepdaughter, Vicki (John) Taylor and son of the heart Peter Johnson. Grandchildren, Laura (Bruce) Turner, Bernie Fornwald, Eric (wife) Pratt, Jeff Mally, Jennifer Lutke, Aisha (Todd) Newenhouse, George (Jaime) Grundner, Wyatt Ayers, Emma Ayers and many great grandchildren.

Diane was a member of the Jordan River Church in East Jordan, MI

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the home of her daughter, Angela Ayers at 00690 Peck Road, Boyne City, MI 49712 at 11:00 a.m. (End of the road, left hand side)

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on her guestbook below.