Joe L. AYERS, 81, of Coudersport, PA, died Thursday, August 6, 2026 in his home.

Born March 10, 1945, in Coudersport, he was the son of Clyde and Fern Buchanan Ayers. A graduate of Coudersport High School, he served honorably with the U.S. Army from 1964 – 1965. He worked on the family farm and was employed by Leete Lumber, Pierce Glass, Ayers Collection Service, and PennDOT, retiring at age 62 in 2007. He also served as a Summit Township Supervisor.

As a young couple raising their own six children, Joe and Gail always made room for extra kids, dogs, and cats to live at Frosty Hollow, but they never dreamed that someday that aspect of their lives would turn into a business. However, in 1992, it did just that. After having remodeled a large barn where they raised their four sons and two daughters, Joe and Gail decided to add some extra bedrooms and bathrooms and began welcoming guests to Frosty Hollow Bed & Breakfast. A short time later they rehabilitated the farmhouse where Joe grew up and the cottage where his grandparents had lived. Every member of the family has had a hand in some portion in the making of a very special property. Making guests feel like they have come to visit old friends has been the goal of the Ayers family for many years.

Many of the guests over the past 34 years of business have seen the results of the working hands of the man, Joe, aka Mr. Joe, aka Pa, behind the many projects seen in Gail’s “mind’s eye!” He also had his hands in the kitchen as well! He has been an inspiration to his family, a steady and reliable spirit sharing his love for his wife, family, and business unconditionally!

Joe was a man who knew how to pray. With a list of people who were in need of prayer in his pocket, he rose at 4:00 am every day and petitioned God on their behalf. When he heard of anyone with trouble or sickness, he added that name to the list. He was always a faithful servant to the call.

Surviving besides his wife, Gail, are: six children, Tracy Ayers of Coudersport, Joseph Daniel (Donell) Ayers of Coudersport, Cindy L. (Bruce) Heiser of Sunbury, Matthew (Betsy) Ayers of Coudersport, Aaron (Annetta) Ayers of Spring Mills, and Joshua (Abby) Ayers of Coudersport; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by eight siblings.

A gathering to celebrate Joe’s life will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Frosty Hollow from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.