Shirley Anne Ayers

Obituary for Shirley Anne Kammauf Ayers
May 18, 1935 - June 1, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Shirley Anne Kammauf Ayers, affectionately known as "Manana," on June 1, 2024, at the age of 89.

Born on May 18, 1935, in Cresaptown, Maryland, Shirley was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.
Shirley graduated from Allegany High School in 1953 and attended Frostburg State Teaching College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1957 and later received her Master's Degree. After graduating, she moved to Kentucky and then later to Montgomery County, Maryland, where she began her teaching career at Broom Junior High School. She also taught at Springbrook High School and concluded her illustrious career at Saint Catherine Laboure. Her passion for teaching and her deep care for children made her an unforgettable educator and mentor.

A devout Catholic, Shirley volunteered at her church and dedicated her life to the church and her faith, holding a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother. Her spiritual commitment was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring those around her.

Known for her generosity and kindness, Shirley was a dedicated gift-giver who found joy in bringing happiness to others. She loved watching her great-grandchildren, gardening, baking sweets, reading, and shopping at TJMaxx. Her home was always a warm and welcoming place, filled with the aroma of her delicious treats and the beauty of her well-tended garden.

Shirley’s family was her top priority. As a single mother, she always put others ahead of herself, ensuring her loved ones were cared for and supported.  For seven years, starting at the age of 79 she was even the devoted babysitter to her great-grandson Luke. Her selflessness and unwavering love were the foundation of her family's strength and unity.

Shirley is survived by her only child Christopher Bradley Ayers Sr. and his wife Angela; her grandchildren Christopher Ayers Jr. his wife Lauren, their two children Hannah and Hailey; Kelsea Lowe her husband Christopher Michael and Nina Gardenhour her son Luke and her husband Jonathan.  Her legacy of love and compassion will live on through them, as well as through the many lives she touched as an educator and friend.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents John Francis and Nellie Kammauf;  her sisters Doris Linaberg and Mary Elizabeth Lacey and her Great Grandchildren Christopher III and Theodore Ayers. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Libertytown, Maryland  on Thursday, June 6, 2024. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and the service will follow starting at 11:00 AM. Following the interment in the church cemetery, a reception will take place in the Parrish Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Shriners Children’s and Frederick Health Hospice in Shirley’s name.
Shirley’s  legacy of love, faith, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.