Phillip Jay Ayres age 79 of Gobles, formerly of Kalamazoo passed away early Friday morning, October 16, 2026. Phil was born in Kalamazoo on June 13, 1947, the son of Alfred Jay and Mildred Rosetta (Conner) Ayres. On June 30, 1988, he married Leslie Gail Turgeon who preceded him in death in 2025. Phil proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Phil was an avid golfer. He had two holes in one during his lifetime. He played golf all over the country. Wherever he travelled he could always find time to play a few holes of golf. He also enjoyed working on his lawn and keeping things nice. Phil is survived by his daughter, Joanna (Jeff Vernon) McHugh; step-children, Patti Kanipe, Peggy Trumble, and Paul (Michelle) Trumble Jr.; grandchildren, Courtnie (John Van Elderen) McHugh, Chelsea (Kevin) Walker, Joshua (Amanda) McHugh, Cody McHugh, Jayden Vernon; great-grandchildren, Colton, Madison, Millie, Noah, Ethan, Brooklyn; and countless friends. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; a son, James Ayres.