Harrison G. “Tony” Ayers

Harrison Gulden “Tony” Ayers, 92, of Anderson, SC, passed away on Monday, March 24, 2025, at AnMed Health Medical Center following an illness. Born on March 25, 1932, in Hartwell, GA, Tony was the son of the late Ansel Kay Ayers and Nana Mae Osborne Ayers Clark Smith. A proud United States Army veteran, Tony served during the Korean Conflict. At only 13 years old, he embellished his age to enlist—determined to serve his country. He would later re-enlist in 1954, completing an additional six years and achieving the rank of Sergeant E-5. Tony always lived life on his own terms. Whether right or wrong, he did what he felt needed doing. If it worked, he celebrated. If it didn’t, he’d try something else. Throughout his long life, Tony held various jobs, but in his later years, he became known around the Anderson community for his HVAC repair work. He had a passion for scratching lottery tickets under a shade tree and a legendary love for salt—so much so, he was rarely seen without a saltshaker close by. He is survived his children: Patrick “Pat” (Amy) Ayers of Jacksonville, FL, Dawn (John) Aklin of Titusville, FL, Rev . K. Scott (Teri) Ayers of Aiken, SC. He is also survived by his stepmother, Helen Ayers of Anderson, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by a daughter, Melody Mitchum; a son, Larry Ayers; a sister, Peggy Beasley; and two brothers, Pat Ayers and Mickey Ayers. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Sosebee Mortuary and Crematory, 3219 South Main Street, Anderson, SC 29624, with Pastor Sam Duncan officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the mortuary. Interment with military honors provided by the Campbell Patriot Guard will follow at MJ Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery, 140 Inway Drive, Anderson, SC 29621. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Shiloh Baptist Church Worship Ministry – EZGO Senior Adult Assistance Vehicle 3925 Shiloh Church Road, Aiken, SC 29805 Online expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.georgefuneralhomes.com. Obituary courtesy of The Historic George Funeral Home & Cremation Center 211 Park Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801 | (803) 649-6234