Joan W. Larson-Ayres passed away peacefully, with her family by her side, Monday, May 27. Joan was born Aug. 2, 1968, to Sheldon Wilson and Gwenda H. Batty. Joan grew up in Randolph, Utah, where she took part in 4-H clubs, little league teams and church activities. She graduated from Rich High School and attended Bridgerland Technical College in Logan, Utah.
Joan married Wade A. Larson, and they made their home in Lyman. They were blessed with two sons, Kaleb and Kendall. Their marriage later dissolved. Joan was a hard worker and had many jobs including waitress, raising bum lambs, secretary, construction, bank teller and driving a 240-ton haul truck for Westmoreland Coal Co.
Joan married the love of her life, Jon Ayres. They enjoyed road trips to visit the grandkids, Javen and Lilli. Joan always looked forward to swimming with them and loved every minute she spent with them. Joan and Jon loved traveling, camping, packing into the Uintas, fishing and just being together.
Joan adored her family, helping others, flowers, anything outdoors, the color purple and chocolate.
Joan was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a member of United Mine Workers of America local No. 1307.
Joan was kind and had a gentle heart; she loved unconditionally and looked for the good in everyone. She had a sense of humor and a contagious laugh.
Joan was preceded in death by her father, Sheldon R. Wilson; her stepfather, Don W. Batty; and a brother, Duane C. Batty.
Joan is survived by her husband, Jon Ayres; his daughters, Mandy Ayres, Erika (Clyde) Weisbeck; their children, Lilli and Javen; her mother, Gwenda Batty; grandmother, Elaine Hatch; brother, Dale (Kim) Wilson; sisters, Shelly Wilson-Schoessler, Jeanie (Rick) Limb and Donna (Rod) Bell; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staffs at McKay Dee Hospital and Rocky Mountain Care, her home teachers, ministering sisters and friends for their care and love.
Joan made the world a better place. She will forever be remembered, missed and loved.
Services were held Saturday, June 1, at the Urie Stake Center in Urie. Viewing was from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., with the funeral following at 1 p.m. Interment was at the Fort Bridger Cemetery.
Online condolences may be given at crandallfhevanston.com.
