Katherine "Melrose" Coward Ayers Lomax

Katherine “Melrose” Coward Ayers Lomax, 90, of Elizabethtown, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 21st, surrounded by her loving family and friends. 

Mrs. Lomax was born in Goldsboro on September 23rd, 1933 to the late Allen Harding and Fanny Hocutt Coward. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, David Taylor Ayers; husband, Roy Eugene Lomax, three sisters: Ann Elizabeth Salter, Evelyn Frances Riggs, Susie Allene Raley; and step-daughter, Karen Lomax Priest. She was a registered nurse and a graduate of Rex Hospital School of Nursing. Very active in Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church, Mrs. Lomax served on numerous committees and was a member of the choir for many years. She was a recipient of the Presbyterian Women’s Honorary Life Membership for exemplary leadership and dedication to the church, and was Chair of the Communion Guild. Mrs. Lomax also served on the Bladen Parish Nurse Health Cabinet. 

Happiest in her role as a homemaker, she was a much beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt. Everyone was welcome in her home, most especially children, and she was always there to offer her support, wisdom, and love in abundance. A friend to all, Mrs. Lomax was a cherished member of the community, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and compassion. 

She is survived by her daughter, Katherine Ayers Sasser of Lillington; son, David Taylor Ayers of Elizabethtown; step-son, Allan E. Lomax of West Jefferson; two sisters: Margaret Faye Jennette (Herman), Fannie Lucille Meachen (Jim); two granddaughters: Laura Sasser Rush, Lynn Sasser Smith; her five precious great-grandchildren: Owen Brantley Rush, Connor Nix Rush, Grey Cordon Smith, Laney Katherine Smith, Mary Scott Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church Columbarium Fund, P.O. Box 567, Elizabethtown, N.C. 28337; Liberty Home and Hospice, 44 McNeill Plaza, Whiteville, N.C. 28572; or the charity of your choice.