Mr. Oliver “Preacher” Ayers, age 86 of Winfield passed away Thursday, October 8, 2020 in the North Mississippi Medical Center.  Mr. Ayers was a mechanic for International Harvester for many years. He had many other jobs and duties: truck driver, bentonite mining, husband, father & grandfather but one of the things he loved most was spreading the Gospel of Jesus.

Mr. Ayers is survived by his Children: Lola (Bob) Baird of Blountsville, Freda Hollis of Winfield, Edward (Martha) Ayers of Winfield, son-in-law Steve Sawyer of Greenwood Springs; Grandchildren: Bobby (Christina) Baird, Stephanie Sawyer, Anthony (Jessica) Hollis, Beverly (Matthew) Abbott, Marsha (Jamey) Reid, Brandy Baird, Benita Hollis, Eddie (Kristy) Ayers, Stephen (Daphne) Sawyer, Sammy (Kristina) Sawyer; Sister: Billy Faye Key; Brother: Bobby Ray Ayers and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years Lola Bernice Southern Ayers and late wife Lillian Parr Ayers; Daughter: Carolyn Sawyer, Granddaughter: Angela Hollis; Son-in-law: Dennis Hollis; Sisters: Gladys Sprinkle, Dociefene Johnson and Myrtie Hawkins; Brothers: Alton, Junior and Lavaughn Ayers.

A celebration of life “going home” graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at the Pine Torch Cemetery near Moulton in the Bankhead National Forest.  Bowen Funeral Home of Winfield serving the Ayers family.