Alice Marie Ayers' Obituary
Alice Marie Blackburn Ayers, 79, of Howey-in-the-Hills, FL, passed away October 7, 2014. She was born in Maryville, TN, daughter of the late Roy and Alice Blackburn. In 1968 she moved to Lake County from Mountain City, TN. She was an Elder of First Presbyterian Church of Eustis and a member of the Presbyterian Women’ s organization. She was active in Howey-in-the-Hills Garden and Civic Club; Lake Association for Home and Community Education; and Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority. Before coming to Lake County, Alice was a 4-H/Home Economics Extension Agent in Mountain City, TN. She was employed as 4-H Extension Agent with the University of Florida/Lake County Extension from 1968 until her retirement in 1992. She administered the 4-H youth development program, serving over 5000 youth and leaders during her career.
Alice graduated from Maryville College, TN, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics and earned a Master’s Degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She received several awards: Distinguished Service Award from National Association of Extension 4-H Agents and its 25-year Service Award; Lake County Agriculture & Youth Fair’s 1992 Roll of Honor, for 20 years’ service, President of the Florida Association of 4-H Agents; and Registration Chairman for 1981 National Conference of 4-H Extension Agents. After retirement, she continued 4-H service as a volunteer. The Howey Garden and Civic Club gave Alice the 2002 Blanche Hobbs Award for outstanding service.
Friends appreciated her dependability and quiet, steady manner. Alice enjoyed sewing, weaving, upholstery, bread making, and scrapbooking.
She is survived by David H. Ayers, husband of 42 years. Also surviving are her brother Charles R. (Elizabeth) Blackburn of Maryville, TN; sister in law Fern Blackburn of Knoxville, TN; nephews Richard E. (Cynthia) Blackburn , Thompsons Station, TN; Timothy C. (Jean) Blackburn of Maryville, TN; great nieces, Gracie; Jordis and Audrey; great nephew, Joe and wife Rachel; great -great niece, Virginia Alice; and cousin Grace Stinecipher of Sanford, FL. Alice was predeceased by her brother James W. Blackburn.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, October 16, 11 AM, First Presbyterian Church, 117 S. Center St., Eustis, FL 32726.
Memorials may be made to: The Handbell Fund at First Presbyterian Church. You may share thoughts by visiting hamlinhilbish.com. Hamlin & Hilbish Funeral Directors 326 E. Orange Avenue, Eustis, FL, 352-357-4193.
What’s your fondest memory of Alice?
What’s a lesson you learned from Alice?
Share a story where Alice's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Alice you’ll never forget.
How did Alice make you smile?