AHOSKIE – Robert Hunter Ayers, age 67, of Ahoskie, passed away on Thursday, November 17, 2016 at Vidant Roanoke Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie.

Robert was born on February 21, 1949 in Bertie County, NC. He was the owner and operator of Ayers Ceramic Tile Company in Ahoskie for many years and was an avid drag racer and fan of the sport.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Doris Ayers; and a very special nephew, Charlie Ayers.

Robert is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn Martin Ayers; his brothers, Carlton Cherry of Washington, Irvin Ayers and wife Mary of Ahoskie, James Ayers of Ahoskie, Winfred Ayers and wife Elaine of Ahoskie, and Johnny Ayers of Ahoskie; his sisters, Betty Hill of Windsor, Carol Jackson of Ahoskie, and Linda Brown and husband Tim of Ahoskie; his special nieces and nephews, Joe Martin and wife Susan of Conway, Stacie Clarke and husband Patrick of Sunbury, and Ken Martin and wife Lisa of Conway; his great-nieces and nephews, Morgan Jernigan, Mollie Jernigan, Savannah Martin, and Hunter Martin; and many more nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 21, 2016 at Highland Memorial Gardens in Ahoskie.  The Reverend Elmer Vann and the Reverend Ronnie Conner will be presiding.

The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 20, 2016 at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie.

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Ayers family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.