Dates
Tommy Dean Ayers was born May 3, 1947 to Elgin “Dewitt” and Ethel Ayers in San Angelo, Tx., and passed away on September 11, 2024.
Tommy grew up farming and ranching in Texas and New Mexico, and his family lived on the Guinn Ranch in Knickerbocker where he developed his love for hunting and fishing. He graduated from Christoval High school. Later he met the love of his life, Alice Hoelscher and they were married at Sacred Heart Cathedral on January 25, 1969. Tommy earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in education from Angelo State University. He began coaching football and taught history at Lincoln Junior High, and later at Central High School where he was a respected and beloved history teacher. He also drove a school bus for 25 years-- “oh those 4:00 am mornings” rain or shine. This made him an early riser for many years even after he retired from SAISD after 35 years of service.
When not teaching or coaching, he loved fishing and hunting with his family and friends (along with the occasional poker game where the loser had to go out and hunt). There were those Colorado summer trips with his coaching buddies that brightened his eyes every time he recalled them, and don’t forget the dominoes and rodeos. Around town he was often greeted by former students with a friendly “You were my favorite teacher!” and a big hug would follow.
After retirement, Tommy and Alice enjoyed trips to Europe, Alaska, and many other beautiful places. Pops and Granna enjoyed attending the grandkids softball, football, and baseball games.
Tommy was a faithful member of Saint Ambrose Catholic Church where he served on the Parish Council, taught high school CCD, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed making and selling festival sausage and cooking for weddings. He also made time to help with Meals on Wheels and attend the Senior Citizens monthly domino gatherings.
Tommy is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Alice Hoelscher Ayers, his son Jeffrey Ayers, daughter Jullie Allison (Robert), grandchildren Wyatt Allison, Reagan Ayers and Lincoln Ayers, sister-in-law Betty Jean Halfmann (Delbert), nephews Darrell Halfmann (Danielle), Scotty Halfmann (Tana), Ricky Halfmann (Becky), Ryan Ayers, nieces Sherri Spruiell (TC), Jennifer Seidenberger (John) and many great nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Jerry and Larry Ayers, his in-laws, Lawrence and Alma Hoelscher and his brother-in-law Jerome Hoelscher.
“Pops” we will miss you and look forward to seeing you in Heaven. When a thunderstorm rolls through, we will know you made it up there, found a domino game to join in on and are shaking the next hand.
There will be a rosary held on September 13, 2024, at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church at 6:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial is being held at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church at 10:30 AM on September 14, 2024.
Memorials can be made to Saint Ambrose Cemetery Fund, The Pregnancy Help Center of San Angelo, or the Memorial of your choice.