Wayne Bruce Ayers, 58, of Chappell Hill (formerly of Abington, Conn.) died unexpectedly in early July at his home.

Wayne was an accomplished folk art artist and owner of Wayne Ayers Folk Art. He created decorative pieces in the style of the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries and was well known for his craft throughout the United States. He was also a master stone mason, working at that craft for more than 37 years, specializing in restoration and recreations of Eighteenth and Nineteenth Century chimneys, fireplaces and New England stone walls.

He was born November 5, 1952, in Putnam, the son of Shirley F. Ayers of Pomfret Center, Conn., and the late John R. Ayers. He was married to Kathleen Mary (Kane) Ayers; she predeceased him on August 5, 2010.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by a son, daughter-in-law and grandson, Allan Ayers and D. Lisa Eaton and Brendan Ayers of Ellington, stepson, Jonathan, (Alyson Bryant) Clayton of Florida, four step-grandchildren, two brothers, Ronald Ayers and Douglas (Linda) Ayers of Glastonbury and five sisters, Lynda (Robert) Blackmar of Putnam, Susan Ayers of Manchester, Nancy (Bruce) Wendus of Pomfret Center, Elaine Ayers and Patricia (Daniel) Cream of Texas.

He is also survived by his former wife and lifelong friend, Ghislaine (Jess) Palo, as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to a charity of donor’s choice. A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, July 30, at 10 am, at the Abington Congregational Church, Route 97 (Abington section), Pomfret Center. A private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

This obituary was published in the July 15 issue of the Norwich Bulletin and is used with permission.