Frederick Lederhouse Ayers, age 90, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Aperion Care in St. Elmo.

      He was born August 1, 1934, in Buffalo, New York, the son of Howard E. and Irene M. (Lederhouse) Ayers.  He was united in marriage to Martha Ellen Waggoner on October 9, 1954, in East Saint Louis and together they have shared 70 wedding anniversaries. 

      Fred honorably served in both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant after 23 years of dedicated military service in the Air Force and Army.  Following his service, he worked as an electrician and handyman, retiring from both Southwire and later Sherwin Williams-Minwax.  A devout Christian, Fred shared his faith as an Itinerant  Pastor for many years, leading revivals and filling in for churches.  He found joy in volunteering as a cook at Church Camp.  He enjoyed fishing, cooking, growing roses, and spending time with his cats.  Fred was deeply committed to his community, serving as a volunteer fireman for over 30 years and in the past had served as Chief of the Xenia Volunteer Fire Department.  He was  a member of the Flora American Legion Post 14.  Fred dedicated time to mentoring young people, serving as both a Cub Scout leader and Boy Scout leader while stationed in Japan.  He also raised cattle, and trained beagles for hunting rabbits.   

      He is survived by his wife: Martha Ayers of Xenia; 3 sons: Frederick “Rick” E. Ayers of Xenia, Thomas “Tom” H. Ayers of Xenia, and John D. (Jean M.) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, Georgia; a daughter: MaryKay Branch of Xenia; grandchildren: Jason (Emily) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, South Carolina, Beth (Joel) Hagens of Tamarack, Florida, Joel (Kathy) Waggoner of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Joseph (Becca) Waggoner of Wyncote, Pennsylvania, Lee (Michelle) Ayers of Racine, Wisconsin, Nathan (Rebecca) Ayers of Michigan, Adam Bensley of Wisconsin, Katherine Ayers of Xenia, and Crystal (Tim) Dolan of Crystal Lake; 22 great-grandchildren; a sister: Susan Paden of Old Washington, Ohio; several nieces and nephews, and his beloved cat, Boots.

      He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson: Vernon Vaughn; brother-in-law: Charlie Paden; mother-in-law: Nancy Waggoner; and a niece: Sharron Paden.

      A visitation will be held from 12-3 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with the presentation of military funeral honors taking place at 3 p.m.  Interment will take place at a later date in Parker Cemetery, Xenia.  Rather than purchasing flowers or other gift items, the family suggests the most meaningful way to honor Fred’s memory is through a donation to the Xenia Volunteer Fire Department or Ronald McDonald House Charities.  They deeply appreciate your understanding and kindness.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com