Obituary of Iva Jean Ayers

Iva Jean Ayers, 82, of Jamestown, passed away Wednesday March 20, 2019 in the Heritage Park Rehab and Skilled Nursing Facility. She was born April 24, 1936 in Erie, PA the daughter of the late Benjamin and Nina Rutkowski, and was raised by her grandmother Nina. For many years, Iva worked in nursing at various nursing homes, mostly in Michigan. While living in Jamestown, she worked in architectural design. Iva was a talented artist and a hard worker. She loved animals, tending to her flower gardens and was a great cook. In earlier years, she was named Beauty Queen in Erie, PA. Her greatest joy was caring for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Surviving are her children, Victor A. Gifford, Robert E. Gifford, Bambi Lynn Winzell, and Jeanna Kay Gifford; several grandchildren and great grandchildren, including her great grandson Sam Jackson whom she raised and who resided with her. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by four children, Crystal Lynn Gifford, Ronald Tim Gifford, Skippy E. Gifford, and Joseph J. Gifford. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Visitation will not be observed. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Chautauqua County Humane Society, 2825 Strunk Road, Jamestown, NY 14701.