Stephen Christopher "Big Stephen" Ayers, Sr., 58, affectionately known as "Chris", passed away suddenly on the morning of May 27, at home. A loving and cherished husband, father, and physician, Stephen spent his last days caring for patients, as well as providing counseling and guidance to friends and colleagues who knew and trusted his judgement.

Stephen grew up a gifted child with a penchant for learning things fast and early. So much so that he was quick to finish assignments and help his teachers with their errands to the office. This gift followed him through life, as he graduated from Ben Franklin High School, New Orleans, LA and later went on to attend Xavier University and graduate from LSU Medical School via their New Orleans campus. Stephen's story is a story of perseverance, as he worked diligently to put himself through school. An inspiring story indeed.

Upon moving to Lake Charles in the early 90's, he opened several practices in Lake Charles, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge. On top of also working as a physician, Stephen successfully ran a real estate business spanning from Baton Rouge to Opelousas to Lake Charles just to name a few places.

Not only was he a hard worker, but he was also known to take part in community opportunities as well. Stephen was a member of the local Kiwanis Club, as well as active as a member in Mardi Gras Krewe, Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaires, in Lake Charles, LA. He was also a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity as well. Stephen is also known well for having posted bail for Michael Bell from the Jena 6 situation. On a more personal note, Stephen was more than glad to also coach his son, Stephen Jr's Hi Hoops Basketball Team.

Known for his generosity and propensity to help others, Stephen has left his mark in the lives of many. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 26 years, Felicia Lawrence Ayers; his son, Stephen C. Ayers, Jr, and daughter, Kristopher Kevon Lawrence of Lake Charles, LA. His brothers, Jules and Jamal Mitchell of New Orleans, LA; his bonus daughter, Saimon Carrier, of Lake Charles; and his cousins, John, Michael, and Craig Trotter and Brian Kelly also of New Orleans; and the Barthé and Ayers families also of New Orleans. There are also a host of other family as well who are at a lost to have lost. Thank you for sending your love prayers and well wishes.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Marian Ayers Mitchell; his father, Alvin Ayers, and cherished father figure, Russell Barthé; and Aunts, Geraldine Trotter, and Celestine Washington, as well.