Donna J. Ayres, 79, of Granville Summit, passed away peacefully, earlySunday morning, August 29, 2021 at the Bradford County Manorfollowing a brief stay. Donna Jane was born January 20, 1942 to the late Wilber and Leona (Buck) Wilcox. She attended Canton Area Schools and was a graduate of the class of 1960. On June 9, 1963, Donna married Gary Ayres. Together they shared 58 years of marriage and raised two sons as well as assisting with her two loving grandchildren.

Donna was a hardworking farm girl all her life. As a youngster, sheassisted onher parent's dairy farm. Later, along with Garyher belovedhusband,established The Cidermill Farm locatedin Leroy Township. There, Donnaassisted with the daily operations of the farm,as well as being a devoted homemaker. She possessed a green thumb, often enjoyingtending to her house plants and flower beds. Donna loved the beauty of the outdoors,the wildlife and all of God's nature. She was the family's truematriarch.Talented at cooking and baking, a family holiday dinner was always a favorite time.Most important throughout Donna's lifewas spending time withfamily, especially her grandchildren. Shewas a member of the Windfall Grange, Troy Women's Bowling League and the Ruby Rascal's Chapter of the Red Hat Society in Canton.

Survivingare;her husband,Gary, sons; Kyle (and Craig) Ayres and Travis (and Karen) Ayres, grandchildren; Cam Ayres and Jadyn Ayres, brothers; Lloyd (and Norma) Wilcox and Stuart (and Tanya) Wilcox,a sister; Kay Wilcox, sister in law; Judy Wilcox, several nieces, nephews,cousins, neighbors and dear friends.

Besides her parents, Donna was predeceased by a brother;FredWilcox.

Family will receive friendsSaturday, September 4, 2021 from 9:30 – 11 A.M. at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m., with her nephew, Denny Vermilya, officiating. Burial will bein the Windfall Cemetery. Donna received exceptional care during her last days and suggests you consider a memorial donation in hername to the Bradford County Manor's Activities Fund, 15900 Route 6, Troy, PA 16947.

Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.pepperfuneralshomes.com