Kenneth Christopher Ayers

1974 - 2025

Kenneth Christopher Ayers

July 19, 1974 - October 2, 2025

Kenneth Christopher "Ken" Ayers, 51, passed away unexpectedly in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on October 2, 2025.

Ken was born on July 19, 1974, in York, Neb., where he spent his youth. He attended St. Joseph's Catholic School and graduated from York High School in 1992. An Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, Ken developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. He went on to earn his degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and dedicated his early career to public service in law enforcement.

In 1998, Ken graduated with the 42nd Recruit Class of the Nebraska State Patrol. He served honorably for ten years before transitioning to overseas contracting work in Iraq. For the next twelve years, Ken worked with the U.S. Department of State at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, providing security and diplomatic support.

While on leave in September 2009, Ken met the love of his life, Juthathip ("Sea"), in Thailand. He proposed to her on October 10, 2010, and the two were married privately in the United States on August 21, 2013, after Sea obtained her visa. They made their home in the mountains of Divide, Colo., before returning to Thailand to establish their forever home in Chiang Mai.

In Thailand, Ken discovered a passion for gemstones and the art of lapidary. Under the guidance of his mentor, he studied gem cutting, gemstone heating, and gemology. His hard work and dedication led him to become a GIA Graduate Gemologist, a certified heat treater, and an award-winning gemstone cutter recognized by the United States Faceting Guild, where he later served on the Board of Directors in 2023.

Ken founded Kgemstones, a successful business based in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, specializing in faceting and heat treating gemstones. Recently, he expanded his calling as a teacher, opening his own Lapidary School in Thailand to pass on his craft to others.

Ken and Sea shared a deep bond and loved traveling together, relaxing on the beach, and practicing yoga. He also enjoyed hunting in the United States and held a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, which he continued to study in South Korea under his former master. A lifelong learner, Ken had a keen interest in philosophy, cosmology, and personal growth. He often spoke of the beauty of Thailand, the serenity of the beach, and his gratitude for his beloved wife.

Ken will be dearly missed by his wife, Juthathip ("Sea") Ayers; his parents, Reggie and Patty Ayers; his sister, Kara (Noah) McNeese, Bradley Washburn; nieces and nephew; and many aunts, uncles, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his sister, Kristine Washburn (Ayers).

Ken was cremated and funeral service was held in Thailand. The family is planning a private burial of Ken's ashes upon repatriation.

Ken's curiosity, strength, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His adventurous spirit and love of learning will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.