Bruce W. Ayers

Bruce W. Ayers Ennice, NC — Bruce W. Ayers, 84, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 9, 2026. 

Bruce was born in Akron, Ohio, to the late William “Bud” Ayers and Brenda (Parkinson) Ayers. He was a member of Barberton High School’s Class of 1960 and later attended Union College. From 1963 to 1967, he proudly served in the United States Coast Guard, receiving an honorable discharge. Following his military service, he began a career in advertising and yacht brokerage. 

Bruce was a Freemason for 50 years and, most recently, was a member of Uptown Masonic Lodge No. 68 in Galax, Virginia. He was also a member of Galax Presbyterian Church. 

Bruce and his beloved wife, Patricia, shared 49 years of marriage and raised their family in Munroe Falls and Bay Village, Ohio, and Virginia Beach, Virginia. Following Patricia’s passing, Bruce moved to Galax, Virginia. 

A passionate musician, Bruce especially enjoyed playing the autoharp. He also found meaning in providing comfort birds to those in need of peace, sharing his compassion and love with others. 

Bruce is survived by his loving sons, Reid (wife, Lisa) of Canton, Ohio, and Scott (wife, Andrea) of Fredericksburg, Virginia; his cherished grandsons, Ben and Wilson; and his dear companion, Nancy Parlasca, of Ennice, North Carolina. He also leaves behind other relatives and many friends who will miss him dearly. 

In addition to his wife, Patricia, Bruce was preceded in death by his sister, Charlene Ayers (Freppel). 

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 18, at 2 p.m. at Galax Presbyterian Church. Following the service, Bruce will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Akron, Ohio. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Galax Presbyterian Church in Bruce’s memory.