Allen Ayers, lovingly known to many as Big Al, passed away on October 13, 2026, in Sheridan, Indiana, with his family at his side. He was born on June 30, 1951, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Allen will be remembered as a loving, outgoing man with a very humorous spirit. He was also private, strong-willed, and a perfectionist, qualities that shaped the way he lived and worked. Those who knew him knew a man who took pride in doing things well and who brought both strength and warmth to the people around him.

For 30 years, Allen worked as a machinist at Biddle Components, now known as EMC. He was mechanically inclined and gifted with his hands, and that talent carried into many parts of his life. He enjoyed woodworking and working in the yard, and he was especially proud of his lawn and garden. He also loved to cook, hunt, and make music. Among the things he treasured most was spending time with his family, including traveling to Virginia to be with loved ones there.

Above all, Allen loved his children and grandchildren, who were the pride of his life. He is survived by his son, Philip Ayers; his daughter, Jennifer Rose; and his son, Joseph Ayers. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Abigail Taylor, Allen Lee Ayers, Emily Rose, Madeline Davis, and Bella McCoy. He is further survived by his sisters, Vickie Dampier and Diane Peak, and by his brothers, Cecil Ayers and Bill Cline. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and shared in his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Albert Ayers; his mother, Mary Cline; and his brothers, Ralph Ayers and Bobby Ayers.

Allen’s life was marked by hard work, devotion to family, and the simple joys of creating, tending, traveling, and being with those he loved most. His memory will be carried forward in the laughter he inspired, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.