Michael Kevin Ayars, age 72 of Myrtle Beach, SC, formerly of Penns Grove, NJ, passed away on May 4, 2026, at Conway Medical Center following a stroke.  

Michael was born in Salem, NJ on January 8, 1954, to the late Milton F. Ayars, Jr. and Helen D. Bigley Ayars.

Michael was a graduate of St. James High School’s class of 1972 and worked until his retirement at E&R/NAPA Auto Parts in Penns Grove, NJ where he was known as “Captain NAPA” due to his expertise in automotive parts.

He was predeceased by his infant son Michael and his sister, Deborah Featherer. He is survived by his brother Kevin, his brother-in-law, Jay Featherer, his sons Stephen (Jessica), Jason with whom he shared with his first wife, Carol Parrish (Nathan), Ryan whom he shared with his second wife, Holly Bailey (William), stepson Donald Powell, and his grandchildren: Dylan, Chase, Abigail, Olivia and Christopher, his nephew, Alan Jay Featherer (Katie) and their children Nathaniel, Eloise and Elijah.

Michael enjoyed spending time with his family, watching sports and was a lifelong fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, Flyers, 76ers, and Eagles (following a recovery from being an unapologetic Dallas Cowboys fan). He coached youth soccer and baseball when his sons were young and was known to many of his team members and the neighborhood kids as “Coach”.  His favorite sport was golf which he was able to thoroughly enjoy in his retirement when he moved to Myrtle Beach, SC in 2015. Michael was a loving father/stepfather, grandfather and friend who will be remembered for his perpetual smile, kind heart and fierce love of family.

Success by Ralph Waldo Emerson

To laugh often and love much;
To win the respect of intelligent persons
And the affection of children;
To earn the approbation of honest critics
And to endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others;
To give of one's self;
To leave the world a little better,
Whether by a healthy child,
A garden patch
Or a redeemed social condition;
To have played and laughed with enthusiasm
And sung with exultation;
To know that even one life has breathed easier
Because you have lived  
This is to have succeeded.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at a later date.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is assisting the family with the arrangements.