- September 20, 1942 – January 17, 2022
Robert Gerald Ayres, born in 1942, raised in Jonesboro, Louisiana and a resident of Patterson, passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family. Gerald was a graduate of Louisiana Tech University, receiving his BA in Education then continuing at Nicholls State University earning his Master’s Degree Plus 30. Gerald started his teaching career at Patterson High School, where he taught Drivers Education and coached football. Many senior citizens living in Patterson learned how to drive when he gave adult driving classes. For a few years he left teaching to own Ayres Jewelry and Trophies. He returned to Education and he became Assist. Principal at Patterson High School and then became Principal of Patterson Jr High. He moved to the St. Mary Parish School Central Office where he held various positions and retired as Assistant Superintendent. He also held multiple public offices over the years and enjoyed serving his community.
Gerald is survived by his daughters, Mary Ayres of The Woodlands, TX, Frances Comeaux and husband Barry of Plaquemine, and Anna Pennison and husband Jason of Bayou L’Ourse; grandchildren, Matthew Comeaux and wife Kim, Katie Butler and companion Bryce Clements, Colin McInnis, Maggie McInnis, Amanda Rock and husband Trinity, Jared Pennison and wife Renee, and Josh Pennison and wife Laura; his great grandchildren, Bryce Saurage, Braleigh and Braelynn Comeaux, Bryleigh Clements, Mason, Paisley and Jackson Rock, and Vail, Brec, and Kennedy Pennison; his brother, Travis Ayres and wife Elizabeth; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Rosemary Carlino Ayres, his parents, Tommie Ayres and Mary Alice Jones Ayres;brother, Tommie Ray Ayres and wife Bea; and grandson, Jon Luke Comeaux.
He enjoyed working in the yard and tending to his hot houses in the backyard. Like his mother, he had a green thumb to make anything grow. Rosemary always looked forward to him bringing her beautiful blooms from the yard.
Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for visitation at Ibert’s Mortuary in Patterson on Thursday, January 20, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Patterson during a 1:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial. Following he will be laid to rest in the St. Joseph Cemetery Mausoleum. Father Herb Bennerfield will be the Celebrant for the Mass with Father Angelo Cremaldi concelebrating.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that you please consider contributions made to Texas Children’s Hospital, https://waystogive.texaschildrens.org.
Family and friends may view the obituary online by visiting www.iberts.com and are encouraged to share their condolences, cherished memories, love, and support for the family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc., 1111 Lia Street, Patterson, LA 70392, (985) 395-7873.