Richard B. Ayers

1924 - 2014

Richard B. Ayers

AGE: 90 • White Plains

Richard Bache Ayers, age 90, died on May 4, 2014, at his home in White Plains with loving family by his side. Born on April 28, 1924 in Ossining, NY to John and Gladys Ayers, he is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Charlotte Lindy Ayers, their daughter Elaine, and sons; Stephen, Richard and Frederick, 6 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Joanne Paustian.

Richard was a talented artist and gifted story teller. Known as Dick Ayers, he enjoyed an illustrious career as a renowned comic illustrator.

He was a graduate of Greenburgh High School, and studied at The Art Career School and the School of Visual Arts in NYC. During his career he spent time teaching illustration in NY and NJ.

His interest in comic art began at age 3 when his father would read comics to him sitting on his lap. In high school he became editor-in chief of the school newspaper and soon found his drawing skills were becoming in great demand. At age 18, Dick enlisted in the Army Air Corps and during his time in the Air Corps painted "nose art" for the crews on their B-26 bombers. After the Air Corp he worked for Magazine Enterprises as a comic illustrator and co-created the original Ghost Rider character. He then worked at Marvel Comics for Stan Lee, who fondly nicknamed him "Darlin Dick Ayers", where he teamed up with legendary comic creator Jack Kirby for many years. He penciled and inked many of the super hero characters such as: Fantastic Four, Incredible Hulk, The Avengers, Thor, Rawhide Kid, Two-Gun Kid, Sgt Fury and Captain America. He later worked for DC comics and continued to pencil and ink many more well known comic characters.

Dick was the recipient of many awards throughout his career. He also delighted comic fans with sketches and autographs at comic conventions throughout the country. His career spanned over 65 years and he continued to free-lance through 2013.

The family gives special thanks to all those who helped with his care. Visiting hours are 2 to 4 pm and 7 to 9 pm Monday, May 12, at the Ballard-Durand Funeral Home in White Plains. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 13th at St. John's Evangelist Church in White Plains. The burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in White Plains.