News Summary
Mark Ayers, a respected educator and significant presence in the entertainment world, has died after a brave battle with cancer. He dedicated over 20 years to mentoring students at North East School of the Arts in San Antonio and made a lasting impact through his work at SeaWorld. Ayers was also recognized for his contributions to the Masonic community. He is remembered for his warmth, creativity, and ability to inspire those around him.
San Antonio, TX – Mark Ayers, a prominent educator and well-known figure in the entertainment industry, passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 69 after a courageous battle with cancer. His contributions to education and his work at SeaWorld San Antonio had a lasting impact on many students and colleagues throughout his life.
Mark was born on November 6, 1955, in Carrizo Springs, TX. He is survived by his devoted wife, Pam Ayers, and their daughter, Marion Ayers. He is also survived by several siblings, including Jim and Lili Traweek, Roxann Langston, Kathy and Doug Beauchamp, Paula and Kent Lauderdale, and Lacy Marie and Mark Mortenson. Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ellen Santee Hanson Traweek Ayers Blackard; his father, Milton (Red) Cowart Ayers; and his brothers, Phillip Traweek and John Ayers.
Mark Ayers graduated from the School of Theater and Dance at Texas Tech University, where he studied under Dr. Forrest Newlin. He spent 11 years at SeaWorld San Antonio, where he was integral to productions involving lasers, lighting, and pyrotechnics. This foundational experience in technical theater eventually led him to teaching, where he would serve as a mentor to countless students at the North East School of the Arts (NESA) for 20 years. He earned the affectionate title of “NESA Techies” due to his nurturing approach and unique teaching methods.
Ayers was known for his profound passion for the arts and education, as well as his gentle intelligence that could illuminate any room. Throughout his teaching career, he inspired his students with memorable phrases, referred to as “Ayers-isms,” which fostered confidence and an eagerness to learn. His ability to connect with students made a significant difference in their lives, offering them opportunities to grow in their creative fields.
In his later years, Ayers redirected his focus towards the Masonic brotherhood, rediscovering the values of community and service. He was honored to receive the Golden Trowel, which is the highest recognition awarded to a Mason, marking his dedication and commitment to the principles of the Masonic community. His spiritual beliefs provided him with strength and serenity during his life, serving as a source of comfort throughout his illness.
Ayers was also passionate about travel and continued his personal learning journey within the Masonic community, allowing him to engage with others while enriching his own life experience. It was this blend of knowledge, compassion, and creativity that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
A graveside service for family and friends will be held on July 22, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at Temple Beth-El Memorial Park in San Antonio, TX. Following the service, a celebration of life will take place at the same venue from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, where loved ones can gather to honor and remember Mark’s remarkable life and legacy.
The Ayers family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Mark’s memory to the Scottish Rite Learning Center in San Antonio. Donors can mail checks as per the provided instructions, and there is also an option for online donations available for the Scottish Rite for Children’s Hospital located in Dallas, TX.
Mark Ayers will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the warmth and inspiration he brought to countless lives. His legacy of kindness, creativity, and dedication to education will continue to resonate within the communities he touched.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Central Texas Grapples with Devastating Flash Floods
San Antonio Celebrates Economic Growth Leaders
San Antonio Resident Wins $3 Million in Texas Lottery
San Antonio Resident Wins $3 Million in Lottery
Texas House Bill Targets Renewable Energy Recycling Management
Big Savings for Texans with New Property Tax Relief Deal
Texas A&M Students Donate $170,000 to Local Nonprofits
Texas Gambling Landscape Wades Through Legal Waters
Texas State University Baseball Prepares for Rivalry Showdown
Texas Eyes the Silver Screen with Bold Film Incentives
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial – Mark Ayers
- Wikipedia: Mark Ayers
- WBF Family – Richard Lee Cunningham Obituary
- Google Search: Richard Lee Cunningham
- Express News – The North East School of the Arts
- Google Scholar: North East School of the Arts
- Concho Valley Homepage – Warrant Roundup List
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Warrant Roundup
- SA Heron – Tower Life Building Sold
- Google News: Tower Life Building Sold
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
