Winona A. (Barns) Ayers

Age 89, of Minerva died peacefully at home with her family by her side on Thursday, April 16, 2026. She was born August 16, 1936 in Malvern to the late John Dallas and Cleo (Owens) Barns. She was a lifetime resident of Malvern, where she graduated. In 1954 she married her high school sweetheart and had 5 children. She began her career in the kitchen at Atwood Lake Marina and later worked as a Sous-Chef for the Little Forest Inn in Malvern from where she retired. She was known as “Mom” and “Grandma” to many. She always said: “There is always room for one more at the table.”

She is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Ayers, a daughter, Connie Chudji, son, Jeff Ayers, a grandson, Corbin Arden and a great grandson, William Brayden Brown and 5 brothers and 4 sisters. She is survived by her children, Ronnie Ayers of Bolivar, Victoria Neice of Minerva, Dana Mercorelli of Minerva and her adopted son, John Stuckey of Minerva, 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and her trusted companions Elly and Ace.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 11: 00 a.m. in the Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva with Rev. Peggy Garner officiating. She will be carried to her final resting place at Bethlehem Cemetery in Malvern by her great grandsons, Gavin, Camerin, Braydon, Michael, Dean and Andon. Calling hours will be one hour prior to services from 10-11 am at the funeral home.

Following the committal service at Bethlehem Cemetery, all are invited to gather at Bicentennial Park in Minerva to celebrate her life. She always said children should be outside and having fun, not sitting in sorrow! Those wishing to send condolences may sign the online register at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.