Leonora Maria Ayers

Leonora “Lee” Maria Ayers, 100, of Cassopolis, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, January 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Lee was born on September 6, 1924, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, the eldest of four children to Thomas and Claira Caterino. She led a rich and fulfilling life, attending Antioch College, traveling throughout Europe, and working in New York City. During World War II, she served as a WAVE and later worked at Bendix in South Bend, where she met her future husband. Lee dedicated 27 years to Cassopolis Public Schools, retiring in 1987.

On June 24, 1954, she married Charles W. Ayers in South Bend, Indiana. After forty-four years of marriage, Charles preceded her in death in 1998. Lee was also preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Anita (Earl) Handley, Gilda (Will) Heider, and Carla (Burton) Cronin.

Lee took great pride in her family. She is survived by her three daughters, Lisa (Tim) Ayers-Touhey of Cassopolis, Gina (Dino) Signore of Grand Rapids, and Maria (Martin) Murphy of Frankfort, Illinois; her son, Thomas (Jessica) Ayers of Cassopolis; ten grandchildren, Daniel Murphy, Andria (Steve) Romkema, Patrick Murphy, Mike Murphy, Charles Ayers, Hannah (Jimmy) Kocab-Ayers, Laura (Cyris) Signore-Zeiders, Stuart Ayers, Joseph Touhey, and Amelia Ayers; and four great-grandchildren, Colin Murphy, Eva Murphy, Jamie Romkema, and Jack Romkema. She is also survived by her loved nieces and nephews, Patrick, Christina, Thomas, John, and Jack.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Lee be made to Cassopolis Public Schools, 22721 Diamond Cove Street, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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