Joseph Lemuel (Joe) Ayers, 86, of Hillsville, passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at Forsyth Medical Center. Mr. Ayers was born in Carroll County to the late Joseph Granson and Irena Goad Ayers. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Muriel Hawks Ayers. Survivors include his daughters and sons-in-law, Carol and Douglas Hancock of Hillsville and Teresa and Ottis Coulson of Max Meadows; five grandchildren and spouses, Jody and Dusty Hancock, Benjamin Hancock, Kevin and Pam Hancock, Stephanie and Gary Riggins, and Matthew and Jennifer Coulson; five great grandchildren; three step great grandchildren; and eight step great-great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 14, 2014 at the Hillsville First Baptist Church at 11:00 AM with Pastor Michael Shockley officiating. Burial will follow in Monta Vista Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends at Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel on Sunday, April 13, 2014 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM. Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.