Thomas D. Ayers

Thomas Ayers, 74, of Wall, NJ, passed away on March 2, 2026.

Born on September 23, 1951, in Neptune, NJ, he was the beloved son of George and Bernice Ayers. He grew up in Manasquan and graduated from Wall High School in 1970, then from Trenton State College in 1974. Tom went on to own and operate Tom's Atlantic Cyclery, a bicycle shop in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, dedicating 30 years to cycling in the region.

His passion for cycling knew no limits. He raced, promoted, coached, officiated, wrenched, and mentored. Always inclusive, he generously helped all manner of cyclists enjoy the sport, sharing his expertise, enthusiasm, and genuine love of cycling.

Thomas is survived by his wife of 45 years, Leslie Ayers (née Romano); his children, Ian Ayers and his wife, Leigh, of Charlottesville, VA, and Dana Cone and her husband, Dustin, of Palm City, FL; his cherished grandchildren, Lucille, Delaney, and Larson; his brother, Jim Ayers and his wife, Marsha, of Medford, NJ; and nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday, March 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. with a service to begin at 3 p.m. at Orender Family Home for Funerals, 2643 Old Bridge Road, Manasquan, NJ 08736. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Thomas's memory to the New Jersey Interscholastic Cycling Association (newjerseymtb.org). to send condolences to the family, please visit www.orenderfamilyhome.net

He will be deeply missed, and his life and legacy will be remembered always.