March 5, 2009

OBITUARIES

Grace Ayrsman

Grace M. Ayrsman of Yellow Springs passed away on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Trinity Community in Beavercreek. She was 90.

Grace always enjoyed her work. She was employed by the Rike-Kumler Company as a sportswear buyer, later at the Greene County Public Library as the head librarian of the Beavercreek branch, and as personal assistant and close friend of Gilda Radner and Gene Wilder. She served on the board of directors at the YMCA in Xenia in the 1960s. 

Her friends and neighbors often admired her handmade quilts, which replicated Shaker and early American design patterns. 

Grace is survived by her two sons and daughters-in-law, Robert J. and Doreen Ayrsman Jr., of Palm Springs, Fla.; and Tom Patrick and Cheryl Ayrsman of Yellow Springs; her sister, Lottie Turner, of Southbury, Conn.; four grandchildren, Robbie and Haley Ayrsman of Florida, Shane and Amy Ayrsman of Oregon; a niece, Nancy Turner of Wisconsin; and a nephew, Charles Turner, of England.

In accordance with Grace’s wishes, there will be no formal remembrance services held, but early this spring a memorial native tree will be planted in her memory as recognition of her love of nature. 

If desired, contributions may be made in memory of Grace to the Glen Helen Association, 405 Corry Street, Yellow Springs, 45387; or the Yellow Springs Community Library, 415 Xenia Avenue, Yellow Springs, 45387.