Harold Donald Ayres

Harold Donald Ayres, 85 of Bentonville, died Friday, January 11, 2008. He was born May 20, 1922 the son of the late Harvey and Elsie Ann Ayres. Harold Ayres was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Bentonville; was retired from the U.S. Coast Guard; a Master Mason; Past Associate Guardian (Job's Daughters); and served on the Board of Directors with Helping Hands in Bentonville where he also volunteered for 25 years serving 50 hours per week. In 2005 he was awarded The Adult Good Samaritan Award by the American Red Cross. Above all, Harold was known for his genuine character and his passion for helping others. He is preceded in death by his wife, Thelma Darlene Ayres and one child, Arthur Barton Kummell. He is survived by children, Colleen Ayres-Griffin of Broken Arrow, OK; Terry Kummell of Danville, CA; Darlene Jones of Asheboro, N.C; 8 grandchildren; and 7 great grandchildren. A visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. Friday, January 18, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church in Bentonville with services following at 2:00 P.M. Graveside will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 19, 2008 at Armstrong Cemetery in Rushville, Missouri. The family would like to thank Harold's many friends for their love and support. Your caring attention and efforts allowed Harold's wishes to be honored and for him to remain in his home and the community he knew and loved. Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands, 302 Airport Road, Bentonville, AR 72712 or to the First United Methodist Church, 201 NW 2nd Street, Bentonville, AR 72712. Arrangements are entrusted to Backstrom-Pyeatte Funeral Home of Springdale.