Derwin 'Dewey' Ayers

Derwin 'Dewey' E. Ayers, 84, a native and life-long resident of Newark Valley, passed away on March 16, 2019. Dewey is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Carol Dow Ayers and his children: Ken and Bambi Ayers, Cheryl and Bruce Whitley, Donna and Ken Miller, and David and Beth Ayers. The joys in his life grew to include his nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Donna Ayers and her special friend Sally and several nieces and nephews. Dewey was predeceased by his parents Willis D. and Winifred Ayers, and brothers Melvin, Charles, and Stanley. He was a member of the Newark Valley High School graduating class of 1953 and while there he was a member of the basketball team and was also proud to be a member of the Newark Valley Cheerleaders. From 1956-1959 he served in the US Marine Corps. He retired from United Machine and Tool, Endicott. Dewey was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Newark Valley, the American Legion and a long-time member of the former Speedsville-Newark Valley Masonic Lodge # 265. His interest in sports continued throughout his life as he remained a fan of all the Newark Valley sports teams as well as the NY Yankees. In his free time, Dewey loved hunting, fishing, skeet shooting, bowling, horse-shoes, photography, woodworking/crafts, puzzles and gardening. An annual Christmas time event was displaying his impressive collection of Train Villages. Many happy family memories were made during camping and beach outings. He was a man of nature --and loved it all--except for squirrels! His notable moral character was respected by all and he will be greatly missed. His family will receive friends on Friday, March 22th at the MacPherson Funeral Home, Newark Valley from noon until 1:45 at which time Masonic Services will be conducted and Military Honors will be accorded, followed by a celebration of his life. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider directing memorials to the Newark Valley Historical Society, PO Box 222, Newark Valley, NY 13811-0222, in loving memory of Dewey Ayers. Condolences may also be written in his guestbook at macphersonfh.com. . Visitation MacPherson Funeral Home Friday, March 22, 2019 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM 5 Whig St Newark Valley, NY 13811 Funeral Service MacPherson Funeral Home Friday, March 22, 2019 2:00 PM 5 Whig St Newark Valley, NY 13811