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Visitation: 12 until 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home
Presentation of military funeral honors: 3 p.m. (at the conclusion of the visitation)
Interment: At a later date in Parker Cemetery, Xenia
Frederick Lederhouse Ayers, age 90, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Aperion Care in St. Elmo.
He was born August 1, 1934, in Buffalo, New York, the son of Howard E. and Irene M. (Lederhouse) Ayers. He was united in marriage to Martha Ellen Waggoner on October 9, 1954, in East Saint Louis and together they have shared 70 wedding anniversaries.
Fred honorably served in both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant after 23 years of dedicated military service in the Air Force and Army. Following his service, he worked as an electrician and handyman, retiring from both Southwire and later Sherwin Williams-Minwax. A devout Christian, Fred shared his faith as an Itinerant Pastor for many years, leading revivals and filling in for churches. He found joy in volunteering as a cook at Church Camp. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, growing roses, and spending time with his cats. Fred was deeply committed to his community, serving as a volunteer fireman for over 30 years and in the past had served as Chief of the Xenia Volunteer Fire Department. He was a member of the Flora American Legion Post 14. Fred dedicated time to mentoring young people, serving as both a Cub Scout leader and Boy Scout leader while stationed in Japan. He also raised cattle, and trained beagles for hunting rabbits.
He is survived by his wife: Martha Ayers of Xenia; 3 sons: Frederick “Rick” E. Ayers of Xenia, Thomas “Tom” H. Ayers of Xenia, and John D. (Jean M.) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, Georgia; a daughter: MaryKay Branch of Xenia; grandchildren: Jason (Emily) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, South Carolina, Beth (Joel) Hagens of Tamarack, Florida, Joel (Kathy) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Joseph (Becca) Waggoner of Wyncote, Pennsylvania, Lee (Michelle) Ayers of Racine, Wisconsin, Nathan (Rebecca) Ayers of Michigan, Adam Bensley of Wisconsin, Katherine Ayers of Xenia, and Crystal (Tim) Dolan of Crystal Lake; 22 great-grandchildren; a sister: Susan Paden of Old Washington, Ohio; several nieces and nephews, and his beloved cat, Boots.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson: Vernon Vaughn; brother-in-law: Charlie Paden; mother-in-law: Nancy Waggoner; and a niece: Sharron Paden.
A visitation will be held from 12-3 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with the presentation of military funeral honors taking place at 3 p.m. Interment will take place at a later date in Parker Cemetery, Xenia. Rather than purchasing flowers or other gift items, the family suggests the most meaningful way to honor Fred’s memory is through a donation to the Xenia Volunteer Fire Department or Ronald McDonald House Charities. They deeply appreciate your understanding and kindness. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com
To everyone... i'm fortunate to have known Fred. I knew him as fire Cheriton, xenia city worker, church, and Tom's n MaryKay's freindship with John Akes. Hugs to everyone with sincerest sympathy....🥀
Prayers for comfort for his family!
We are very sorry for your loss,did not know your dad,but being good friends with his beloved daughter Mary Kay she talked about him often in our presence,from what we heard, he was a fine gentleman,he now can serve the Lord like he served his community. Danny,Anna,Trinity,Halo,Sapphire
Sympathy to all of Fred's family. Fred was well known through out Xenia Community with his many volunteer attributes always willing to help whatever situation was at hand. God Bless
No words can take away your pain, neither can they take away your memories. Our memories of Fred were many. He was so good to my parents and so good to Ned and I when we moved back to Xenia. He spent a lot of time helping us with home repairs, sharing meals, and of course the fishing trips with Ed, Ned, and Fred! (And others too.) We're so glad he, Martha, and Katherine stopped to visit us not long ago. He was a special person and we loved him. May your memories of him stay with you always.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends.
So sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. He was such a great man and always treated me very kindly. He volunteered at the Fire Department along with my grandfather Edward Caudle. He always made me smile when I spoke to him. Rest in Peace my friend.
Fred was one of the very first to welcome us to Xenia, when we purchased the Gauger Insurance Agency. He was a kind and friendly soul. He was a great conversationalist, he share much wisdom and common sense. I loved his smile and laugh. He will be missed.
I am so sorry to see Xenia has lost such an awesome man. He was always there to help anyone and everyone. Prayers for all.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Fred was a great man and he will be missed. Carol and Dennis Sprehe asked that I pass along condolences for them as they will be unable to attend today also.
Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services
500 North Main Street
Flora, Illinois 62839
Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
Email: [email protected]