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Dr. Robert H. Ayers

1918 - 2018

BORN

1918

DIED

2018

Robert Ayers Obituary

Dr. Robert H. Ayers, 99, of Athens, passed away Jan. 11, 2018. He was the husband of the late Mary Frances Ayers and father of the late Charles Jerry (Jeremy) Ayers. He was professor of philosophy and religion at UGA. He was granted the status of Emeritus Professor of Religion in 1984 when he took early retirement but taught full time (1984-90) at no cost to UGA so his salary could be used to support the establishment of a Department of Religion. He published numerous journal articles and several books. He was a member of Oconee St. United Methodist Church. He is survived by one daughter, Sandra (Jimmy) Holton, Camilla, GA; one grandson, Richard (Tammy) Holton, Sylvester, GA; and four great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Oconee St. United Methodist Church on Sunday, Feb. 4, at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Oconee St. United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 6707 Athens, GA 30604 or to a charity of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Athens Banner-Herald on Jan. 28, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
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Thomas Slater

January 28, 2021

I came to UGA the fall after Bob retired. I used Bob's book on Judaism and Christianity in my intro religion class. As the first exam approached, there was some anxiety among the students, even after a thorough review of the material. One of my students who missed the review came to my office to see me at the time I had office hours but on the wrong day. Not finding me, she began to wander the halls in hopes of seeing me. She gets to Bob's office and recognizes his name and knocks on the door. He asks her to come in. Bob says, "Can I help you?" She says, "Yes, I'm here for a review." Bob says, "I'm sorry, but I can't help you. I'm emeritus. Who is your instructor?" She replies, "The black man." Bob smiles and says, "I'm sorry, my dear. That doesn't help me much since we have two black men in the department." She left empty-handed. But Bob enjoyed the moment thoroughly.

Gene Sokol

May 12, 2018

Dr. Ayers was my Religion professor at UGA back in the 1980s. He was the most compassionate teacher Ive ever had! He deeply influenced my life as a student back then, but continues to influence my life even now! I will always have a fondness in my heart for Dr. Ayers a living example of Agape` love.

February 5, 2018

I became a student of Dr. Ayers in 1975. While searching for my faith, he taught me that "a rational faith sustains the human spirit better than an irrational faith." He taught me to love God with both heart & mind. I will always be grateful for his kind mentoring. Blessings and sympathy to the Ayers Family and his many students.
Rev. Robert McDaniel

Jim Massey

January 29, 2018

Sandra and family: I am sorry to hear about your Dad's passing so soon after Jerry's death. I always appreciated your parents. It was a real show of devotion by your Dad for helping to establish a religious department at the university. It was an important step in helping to better round out the University. I have fond memories of coming down to your house and knowing your family. you will be in my prayers in the coming weeks. "Keep the Faith"

Chuck Cross

January 29, 2018

I am very sorry to hear of Bob Ayers' passing. I met Bob in Peabody Hall long after his retirement. He was friendly and warm and took an immediate interest in me even though we had just met. I wish the timing of my career had allowed us to be colleagues.

Sandra Brown

January 29, 2018

I would like to express my condolences for your loss. Please find comfort in knowing that God will bring back to life our loved ones.

Tom Stone-Erdman

January 28, 2018

Bob has been a wonderful influence on my life ever since my days as a student and Religion major at UGA in the mid to late 1970's. He has been a true friend and source of inspiration and I will miss him greatly.

Thomas Slater

January 26, 2018

Bob was a great colleague and friend. He was genuine and fun. I was very fond of him and he shall be missed greatly.

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