Lara Hanretta Ayers

Lara Hanretta (Ayers), 43, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.

Born on May 16, 1982, Lara carried a free spirit from the very beginning. She had a true flower child soul--- grounded in love, music, nature, and the belief that life was meant to be felt deeply. Her playlist could move effortlessly from the soulful jams of Dave Matthews Band to the raw rhythm of Wu-Tang-Clan, and inro the timeless grooves of Grateful Dead.

Lara was a plant whisperer in every sense of the word. She had an extraordinary gift for nurturing life--- her home overflowed with thriving plants and blooming flowers, each one lovingly tended. If there was a four-leaf clover hidden in a patch, Lara would find it. She carried that same magic into the lives of those around her--- always spotting the rare good, the quiet hope, the hidden blessing.

Lara fought a long, hard battle against Pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (PLCH) and continued to fight with strength and courage through many complications following her lung transplant. Even in her hardest moments, she kept her sense of humor and her spirit intact. She was a fierce supporter of the underdogs in life--- always rooting for those who needed encouragement, compassion, and someone in their corner.

One of Lara's greatest joys was becoming "MeeMaw" to her grandson, Mylan Jax Ayers, born October 13, 2025. She adored him and embraced her new role with pride, love, and the same warmth she gave so freely to everyone around her.

Above all, Lara was devoted to her family. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Mitchell R. Ayers, Jr., and her three cherished children, Ethan Hunter, Brayden Fisher, and Delilah Evelyn, and her Aunt Judith Ann Slaver who were the center of her world.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Elizabeth Slaver, and her sister, Lindsay Susan Hanretta.

Lara's presence was warm, vibrant, and unforgettable. She laughed freely, loved boldly, and lived authentically. Though her time here was far too short, the roots she planted in the hearts of her family and friends will continue to grow for generations.

She will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered.

Family will receive friends and visitors on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, at Evans Life Celebration Home (3 Newport Drive Forest Hill 21050) from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, at which time a memorial service will begin.