Frederick Earl “Rick” Ayers, age 67, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away Friday, April 17, 2026, at his home.

      He was born June 22, 1958, in Washington, D.C., the son of Frederick Lederhouse and Martha Ellen (Waggoner) Ayers. He had 3 sons, Frederick Lee Ayers, Nathan Howard Ayers, and Adam Ayers Bansley. He was formerly married to Louanne (Schenning) Ayers.

      Rick spent much of his life in Xenia, Illinois, and attended high school in Cahokia, Illinois. He also spent time living in Burlington, Wisconsin, along Long Lake, where he enjoyed fishing from his home, before returning to Xenia to remain close to family. He spent a short time in the United States Navy and later served for a period with the Xenia Volunteer Fire Department prior to starting his family.

      In his earlier years, Rick worked in a variety of roles, including as a cook, bartender, bouncer, and in security at venues throughout southeast Wisconsin and northeast Illinois. An unorthodox entrepreneur, he followed a path less traveled, often operating outside conventional employment structures and working independently in a variety of capacities. Over time, he became well known for his involvement in collectibles, spending close to 20 years as an active flea market vendor. He bought, sold, and traded a wide range of items including sports cards and memorabilia, coins, Civil War artifacts, knives, swords, and a variety of branded and niche collectibles that reflected the trends of the time, often acting as an informal distributor within those markets.

      Rick had a deep appreciation for American history and was an active Civil War reenactor. He frequently portrayed a soldier of the 5th Virginia Infantry Regiment, known as the “Fighting Fifth,” a unit of the Stonewall Brigade, wearing its regalia and insignia while participating in reenactments with various groups. He took part in events at sites including Gettysburg, Cedar Creek, Antietam, Fort Sumter, and the Battle of Aiken. Through his reenacting work, he also appeared as an extra in the film Gettysburg, and in video productions associated with the 1996 video game Robert E. Lee: Civil War General, along with other historical productions. He was also a dedicated black powder enthusiast and was well known for his extensive knowledge of Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson.

      A devout Christian, Rick lived life according to his own rules and was a person of great complexity who faced many life challenges. He navigated a world that was often difficult and unforgiving and was known for a resilient spirit despite life’s many complications.

      He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing and had a lifelong passion for history. He was also a passionate lover of music, finding enjoyment in concerts and live performances, where he appreciated the energy, atmosphere, and connection that music brought to life. He was known for his sense of humor, his ability to make others laugh, and his independent, driven nature. Those who knew Rick understood where they stood with him, as he was not hesitant to speak his mind. He cared deeply for his family, held them to high standards, and, in his own way, sought to provide and do the best he could with what he had. In some circles, he was also known as “Rick ‘Savage Cash’.”

      He was also known for his phrase, “life on the Ponderosa.” He was often recognized by his distinctive style, frequently wearing a cowboy hat with a rattlesnake band and a long duster, presenting himself in the manner of a southern gentleman. He will be remembered for his southern gentleman manner and a lifestyle reminiscent of earlier American eras. In recent months, he had been working to regain his independence and had made plans for one more trip across the country, reflecting the same spirit with which he lived his life.

      He is survived by his children: Frederick Lee “Lee” (Michelle) Ayers of Racine, Wisconsin, Nathan Howard (Rebecca) Ayers of Rock, Michigan, and Adam Ayers Bansley of Wisconsin, who was grateful for the time he was able to spend with Rick; siblings: Thomas “Tom” H. Ayers of Xenia, MaryKay Branch of Xenia, and John D. (Jean M.) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, Georgia; nieces and nephews: Jason (Emily) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, South Carolina, Beth (Joel) Hagens of Tamarac, Florida, Joel (Kathy) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Joseph (Becca) Waggoner of Wyncote, Pennsylvania, Katherine Ayers of Xenia, and Crystal (Tim) Dolan of Crystal Lake; 22 great-nieces and great-nephews; a cousin, Ruth (Draper) Duffina of Fairfield; and an aunt, Susan Paden of Old Washington, Ohio.

      He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Lederhouse Ayers and Martha Ellen Ayers; and a nephew, Vernon Vaughn.

      There will be no services. 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 Rick’s memory is through a donation to the Xenia Fire Department. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com

      “Let us cross over the river and rest under the shade of the trees.”