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Wlaf1450Tomi Sue Housley Ayers passed this life peacefully on September 13, 2023 at her “Happy Place” in Ft. Myers, FL. She was the wife of Haskel “Hack” Ayers, and mother to 3 daughters, Debra Nelson (Jerry Lawson), Traci Dower (JJ Dower), and Codi Provins (Paul Provins). She was known as “T-Tom” to her grandchildren, Nikki Nelson Bumgardner, Joshua Nelson, Addison Dower Russell, Ali Dower Miracle, Rusty Provins, Preston Provins, and Trace Provins. She was known as “Noona” by the 10 great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Haskel “Hack” Ayers, their infant son John Wesley, her sisters, Una (Tootsie) Housley, Relda “Dean” Campbell, Bobbie Joe Poe, Millie Jane Queener Morgan, and Hazel Lou Patterson, brother, Ulyses James Housley, and her parents, J.W. “Jim” and LouVerne Housley.
She will be missed by her brother-in-law, R.L. Ayers, and an abundance of nieces and nephews.
Tomi lived in a unique time of being able to be a wife, the perfect hostess, mother, artist, career woman, and a community leader. Tomi’s talents were many. She was a founding member and partner of Ayers LP, the parent company of Ayers Auction and Realty. She was the first woman on the Lafollette Planning Commission, a member of the LaFollette Church of God, and a Rotarian. She was inducted into the National Auctioneers Auxiliary Hall of Fame for her work and commitment to the industry.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the LaFollette Church of God, 1906 Jacksboro Pike, LaFollette, TN 37766.
At this time, services are to be determined and will be announced at a later date by Cross-Smith Funeral Home.
Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral Home
Condolences may be given online at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com
So Sorry for the loss of this Beautiful Lady. She is now Home with Her LORD and with The Love of Her Life ”HACK”. Prayers of comfort to R.L. my Buddy whom I graduated with Jacksboro High 1959.
Edwin Taylor
A great, beautiful lady who always gave me a smile and a hug when I saw her. She gave me my first (and only) tip when I worked at Baird Supply circa 1973. (It was the former Harris Supply and is now Potters). She always had something nice to say and was such a great hostess at her home or event center. We will sincerely miss her.
Now she is united with Hack. I’m sure my sister Juanita is glad to see you! I have so many fond memories especially on the houseboat and, swimming in your pool. You made everything special to me! I thank you and your family for that! You will be missed!