IN MEMORIAM: Edward Decker Ayers III;

Cooperstown Native, Contractor In Texas

COOPERSTOWN – Ayers II, Edward Decker Ayers III, 66 – Decker, as he was known by all – passed on to his next journey on Saturday, Sept. 15.  He left us after a long and tiresome illness.

A man of few words, he left a huge hole in all our hearts, and the knowledge that each of us was lucky for having been graced with his company as well as being included in his circle.

Born on July 6 5, 1952, in Cooperstown to Janet and Decker Ayers, he grew up in the idyllic setting of small town life with friends, family and loves that are still there today.

An amazing skier, rifleman, outdoorsman and friend, he touched each he came in contact with differently. Each has his own wonderful story about him that is special to them.

His love of travel and new adventures, was most likely only second to his deep passion for history and reading. He always had a “Fun Fact of the day”.

Starting his career as a framer, his knack for design soon became apparent and for 30+ years he owned and operated EDACO Inc., in Austin, Texas, and was a high-end custom contractor.

Blessed with two children,  Edward Decker Ayers IV and Johanna Green, both of Austin, he was a loving and kind father, the kind we can all be proud of.

His passions were many, but mostly after retirement he found peace and harmony at his ranch outside of Johnson City, piddling or futzing, as he used to say.

He married Lindley Pond in 2014 after a long courtship, yet a short romance. He leaves behind a sister and brother, Kathy Arnold, and Sam Ayers, and countless kids and grandkids. He also leaves behind Lindley’s family, her father and his wife, Bob and Fran Pond, and her brothers Jay and Matt and their families. The nieces and nephews of both are countless and each knows they had a special place in his soul.

Two life celebrations will be held, one at the ranch and one for the “Hardy boy” group, as well as for his Cooperstown relatives and friends in New York.

Each day is a gift, live it fully. Rest In Peace knowing the suffering is over, and there is no more pain. God will give us strength in our times of need. Decker, May his memory be eternal.

Published in Austin American-Statesman on Sept. 22, 2018