Joseph James Ayers, 46, of Rochester, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2017 in Springfield.

Joe was born on May 3, 1970 in Springfield the son of James W. and Rosemary Simpson Ayers.

Joe was a 1988 graduate of Rochester High School and worked for Mike Williams Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning Inc.  He was a member of the Plumbers and Steam Fitters Local 137.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosemary in 1994

He is survived by his daughters, Maggie and Mollie Ayers; father, James W. Ayers; brother, John (Wendy) Ayers; two sisters, Barb (Will) O'Brien and Katie (Shannon) Ayers; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 4-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 6, 2017 at Wilson Park Funeral Home in Rochester.  Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 7, 2017 at the funeral home with Pastor's Josh Bennett and Mike Nichols officiating.  Burial will follow in Rochester Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sangamon County Search and Rescue or the Education Fund for Maggie and Mollie Ayers c/o Wilson Park Funeral Home.