About the Fund
Established in loving memory of (Edward) Decker Ayers III.
Decker had a thirst for history and this scholarship will enable Cooperstown High School students an opportunity to pursue a college degree in history.
To qualify for consideration, candidates must meet the following criteria
- Pursuing a degree in history after graduation
- Overall Performance – “B-” (2.7) or above
- Attendance at a 2 or 4-year college or university
- Taking 12 or more credit hours per semester
About (Edward) Decker Ayers III (from his obituary)
Born on July 5, 1952, in Cooperstown to Janet and Decker Ayers, he grew up in the idyllic setting of small-town life with friends, family and loves that are still there today.
An amazing skier, rifleman, outdoorsman, and friend, he touched each he came in contact with differently.
His love of travel and new adventures was most likely only second to his deep passion for history and reading. He always had a “Fun Fact of the day”.
Starting his career as a framer, his knack for design soon became apparent and for 30+ years he owned and operated EDACO Inc., in Austin, Texas, and was a high-end custom contractor.
Blessed with two children, Edward Decker Ayers IV, and Johanna Green, both of Austin, he was a loving and kind father, the kind we can all be proud of.
His passions were many, but mostly after retirement, he found peace and harmony at his ranch outside of Johnson City, Texas piddling or futzing, as he used to say.
He married Lindley Pond in 2014 after a long courtship, yet a short romance. He leaves behind a sister and brother, Kathy Arnold, and Sam Ayers, and countless kids and grandkids. He also leaves behind Lindley’s family, her father and his wife, Bob and Fran Pond, and her brothers Jay and Matt and their families. The nieces and nephews of both are countless and each knows they had a special place in his soul.
Make your tax-deductible gift today!
Or mail your check to:
Community Foundation for South Central New York
520 Columbia Drive, Suite 100
Johnson City, New York 13790
Note: Ayers Scholarship Fund in the memo
For gifts of stock or gifts other than cash & other questions about giving, please contact foundation staff at (607) 772-6773.
