Wilson Pershing "Sonny" Ayers Jr.

1939 - 2010

Stockton, CA

Wilson Pershing Ayers Jr.

Oct. 15, 1939 - Oct. 15, 2010

Wilson Pershing Ayers Jr., lovingly known as Sonny to his family and friends passed away on his 71st birthday surrounded by his loving family at home.

Sonny was born October 15, 1939 to Wilson and Leila Ayers in Muskogee, Oklahoma. In 1944 his parents moved the family to Stockton, California. After graduating from Edison High School, Sonny enlisted in the US Army National Guard. He then re-enlisted in the United States Air Force. He retired from Bennett painting in 2003.

Sonny was a member of Calvary First Assembly of God Church and the American Legion, Karl Ross Post #16. He was a man who enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, gardening, and family BBQ's. He will be greatly missed.

Sonny is survived by his children, Jim Ayers (Susie) of Manteca, Sandra Altamirano (Beto) of Stockton, Connie Givens (David), of Stockton, and his siblings, Wanda Henderson of Lodi, Bill Ayers (Betty) of Manteca, David Ayers of Lodi, Bobby Winchester of Stockton, 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and his special lady friend, Sharlotte Hoover. Sonny is preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Leila Ayers, his wife of 40 years, Jeannie Ayers, brother Ronnie Ayers, granddaughter Jessica Altamirano and nephews Bill Ayers Jr. and Randy Mason. He will be forever loved in death as he was in life.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 19, 2010 from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, 831 Industrial Way, Lodi, CA. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at Evergreen Chapel, Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 and Harney Lane in Lodi.

Donations may be made in his name to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton, CA 95204. Please sign the online guestbook at www.cherokeememorial.com