Harold “Junebug” Ayers of Covington passed away Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, at the age of 72. 

Mr. Ayers proudly served his country  in the United States Army after graduating from Newton County High School in 1965. A longtime resident of Newton County, he attended Red Oak United Methodist Church for 53 years. 

Mr. Ayers worked for the city of Covington in the electrical department before opening his own business, Ayers Electric, in 1972. In 1974, he joined the Covington Fire Department, and after a faithful 29 years retired in 2003. 

Following his retirement, Mr. Ayers spent his time traveling to 48 different states. In addition, he enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who he chaperoned and supported at their sporting events.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Murrell Auten, and sisters Kay Smith and Mae Wilson.

Survivors include his loving wife of 53 years, Diane Martin Ayers; daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Brian Hammond, Alison and Melvin Bates; son and daughter-in-law, Darrell and Rachel Ayers; grandchildren, Hunter Ayers, Sarah Beth Hammond, Hayley Ayers, Landon Hammond, Jacob Hammond, Caroline Hammond, Anna Bates, Joshua Bates; sisters, Cora Hicks, Jessie Carney; brothers, Talmadge Ayers, Billy Brock, L.D. Brock; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A service celebrating the life of Mr. Ayers will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at Red Oak United Methodist Church, located at 15105 Highway 36 in Covington, with interment following in the church cemetery. 

Friends may visit with the family at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 1215 Access Road in Covington, from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nancy and Stanley Jones Scholarship Fund, c/o Red Oak United Methodist Church or Covington Firefighters Scholarship Fund, 2101 Pace St., Covington, GA 30014.

May God bless you for our kindness to others.