Vera M. Ayres, 94, of Colonial Beach, VA peacefully passed away on November 8, 2024.

A beloved longtime resident of Colonial Beach, Vera cherished her community, her faith, and especially her family. Known for her boundless love and devotion to her grandchildren, Vera brought warmth and care into all her relationships.

Vera was an extraordinary cook and baker, well known for her cakes, Christmas cookies, Thanksgiving feasts, and legendary crab cakes.

For years, Vera was a devoted member of Colonial Beach Baptist Church, serving faithfully for 60 years in the church nursery and as an active member of the Women’s Missionary Union. She found joy in serving others and contributed in numerous roles within the church.

Vera’s passion for local sports was well known throughout Colonial Beach. She joined the school system in 1964, beginning as a substitute teacher and later supporting students as a study hall manager and Title I 3^rd grade teacher’s aide. Vera was instrumental in organizing sports banquets and served on the Boosters Club. Her enduring support at baseball, basketball, and football games made her a cherished fixture in the community. She was also a committed PTA leader, serving as president and inspiring others with her dedication.

Vera was preceded in death by her husband Richard Ayres; parents, George & Leslie Morris; and two half-sisters, Nora Sampson and Mae Wood, as well as many cousins, other beloved extended family members and close friends.

She is survived by her children, Dabney Carlton Ayres and Gail Ayres Davies (Bankhead); sister, Mara Calabrese; granddaughters, Christen Davies (Nick Donovan), Caitlin Davies, and Kimberly Davies; step-grandson, James Lumpkin; and great grandchildren, Thomas Donovan and Alexandra Donovan. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, including David “Chip” and Deane Morris, who will all dearly miss her loving presence.

The family will receive friends from 11am to 12 noon on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Colonial Beach Baptist Church. A funeral service to celebrate Vera’s life will held at 12 noon on the same day. Burial will immediately follow at Round Hill Baptist Church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Colonial Beach Baptist Church, 10 Garfield Avenue, Colonial Beach, VA 22443 or https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/1309135?kiosk=1 or to the American Red Cross, https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/.