Gena Marie Ayers, 46, passed away with her mother by her side on Sunday, June 30, at the Systems Unlimited group home where she lived in Iowa City. Gena is survived by her mother, Linda Foster, her father, Pat Ayers; her brothers and sisters-in-law Michael Ayers and Jen Teitle, Steven and Rachel Ayers, and Ezekiel Ayers; her stepfather, Mike Foster and stepsister, Jennifer Foster; six nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, Jack, Riona, Zelda, Yvaine, and Benji; her grandmother Evalyn Wilson; and her loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her brother, Dan and sister, Josie, and her namesake, grandpa Gene Wilson.

Though suffering from severe physical and intellectual disabilities due to neurological damage at birth, Gena spoke a joyful language all her own. She loved music above all else, from Elvis Presley at home to Friday Night Music on the Ped Mall. She loved outings with her friends, whether shopping, bowling, or the trip she made to Las Vegas. Those who assisted in her care found her easy to love.
Her soulful brown eyes, her wide smile, and her infectious laugh are already missed.

The family offers profound thanks to the staff of Systems Unlimited for their care of Gena. For decades, the women and men who cared for her made her life better and became her family as well. The kindness and love extended by Ned, JaʼNene, Dee, Liz, and countless others will live on in the hearts of Genaʼs family.
The family also thanks Iowa City Hospice for their help caring for Gena in her final days.
A celebration of Genaʼs life will be held August 3rd, Saturday, from 2 to 4:30 PM at The Kirkwood Room (next to Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service, Iowa City) for her family, her Systems Unlimited family, and all of our friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Systems Unlimited or to Iowa City Hospice.

To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Gena Marie Ayers, please visit our Tribute Store.

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