Hannelore Bennion-Ayres

Hannelore "Lore" Bennion-Ayres, 83, of Stafford, Virginia, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025, following a short illness at Mary Washington Hospital, Fredericksburg, Virginia. She was born on October 9, 1941, in Ansbach, Germany, and immigrated to the United States in the late 1960s, living in North Carolina, briefly in Utah, and later in Virginia.

Lore worked for many years in the retail sector, demonstrating commitment and resilience as a single parent providing for her daughter, Kimberley. She took pride in her daughter's achievements and independence. Her greatest joy was being Oma to Preston, her cherished grandson; from their first meeting, her love for him never wavered.

Lore also took great joy in gardening, cooking, and being a cat owner. Gardening was her passion, and she was always proud of how plants and the lawn would flourish under her care. Lore was also an extraordinary talent in the kitchen, cooking up fabulous dishes, with German recipes being her favorite. She proudly followed the German tradition of having beer with her lunch each day. Lore was particularly fond of cats and cared for several throughout her lifetime.

Lore is survived by her daughter, Kimberley Bennion of Stafford, Virginia; and beloved grandson, Preston Bennion, also of Stafford, Virginia. Lore also leaves behind a much-adored family cat, Rudi, affectionately known as "Rooder," who was always by her side.

In accordance with Lore's wishes, a direct cremation will take place. The family will scatter her ashes privately at a later date.