Gladys I. Ayers, 96, of New Castle, passed away the afternoon of January 27, 2019 at Jameson Care Center. Born September 13, 1922 in New Castle, she was the daughter of Lewis and Elsie (Conner) Reed. She was preceded in death in 1990 by her husband, William J. Ayers, Jr. whom she married March 1, 1942. Gladys was a graduate of New Castle High School. During the 1940s she was employed with Shenango Pottery. After raising her family she enrolled at Slippery Rock University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in education. She continued with college, earning a Masters degree in special education. Gladys then began teaching at the Childrens Center of Mercer County, formerly the Crippled Children of Mercer County, until her retirement in 1989. Gladys served on the Board of Directors at the Wesley United Methodist Pre-School. She had many interests including painting, drawing, sewing, knitting and reading. She enjoyed collecting music boxes and often made presentations to speak about them. She is survived by three sons, Lewis (Rochelle) Ayers of Port Charlotte, Florida, Douglas (Bonnie) Ayers of North Ft. Myers, Florida and William III (Diane) Ayers of New Castle; five grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by one brother, Frank Reed, and one sister, Thelma Tackitt. Visitation will be held on Friday, Feb.1, from 1:00-3:00 at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle. A service will be held immediately following visitation at 3:00 at the funeral home with the Rev. William R. LaVelle, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in Castle View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church, 1204 W. Washington Street, New Castle, PA 16101. Online condolences may be offered at www.cunninghamfh.com