Barbara Ayers Gryder, 81, of Statesville, N.C., passed away September 24, 2022, in her home after battling with an extended illness. She was born September 12, 1941, to Thomas Jones Ayers and Mildred Inez Gant of Iredell County, N.C.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, T.J. and Mildred Ayers; her husband, Dennis Gryder; and brothers, Larry Ayers and Frankie Ayers.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Mark Gryder; daughter, Kelly Sparks (Curtis); grandchildren, Joey Gryder (Katie), Trent Gryder (Kacie), Dylan Sparks, and Alan Sparks (Tavia); great grandchildren, Reid Gryder, Hayes Gryder, Noah Sparks, Sean Sparks, and Tiara Sparks; brother, Alan Ayers; sister, Kathryn Jenkins (Harold); sister-in-law, Linda Ayers; and special pet, Celie.

Barbara graduated from Harmony High School. She was a member of Fifth Creek Presbyterian Church. She retired from Iredell County Partnership for Young Children. Barbara loved her family, and she loved traveling with them and her friends. Her favorite places to go were the beach and the mountains. She enjoyed cooking, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She adored her dog Celie. Barbara always put others before herself. She was loved dearly by her family and friends and she will be missed greatly.

Services will be held Sunday, October 9, 2022, at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation is from 2 to 3 p.m. with a service to follow. Burial after will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Fifth Creek Presbyterian Church or Hospice of Iredell County.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Gryder family.