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Wlaf1450TOP PHOTO: Hack’s three daughters were on hand at WLAF to honor their father; Traci Dower, Codi Provins and Debra Nelson Lawson.
Codi Provins (left) listens as Lonnie Hatmaker explains how he and Hack began developing subdivisions.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: It was three years ago today, the late Hack Ayers was remembered over WLAF, and today, we share that memory with you.
LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – “Dad’s walking streets of gold, and we’re rejoicing,” said Debra Nelson Lawson. She and her two sisters joined the crowd at WLAF on Thursday afternoon as the old radio station celebrated the life of Hack Ayers. The 83-year- old Ayers passed away Wednesday afternoon.
Family, friends, business partners and others joined in either in person in the WLAF studio or by telephone. Charles Lingerfelt called in from Dallas to share his memories of Hack.
Ayers had a connection to WLAF nearly from its inception. It was in the spring of 1953 when a 17-year -old Hack Ayers used his tractor to dig the trench line for the cables to run from the tower to the studios in the Fleet Building. Since that time, Ayers had been either on the air as a sponsor or guest or both. “He was just a part of the WLAF family and always listened and encouraged us,” said WLAF owner Bill Waddell.
Waddell was joined by Jack Reynolds, Lonnie Hatmaker, David Hicks, Charlie Hutson, Claudette Love, David G. Young, Dormas Miller, Scotty Kitts, Big Josh Etter, Charlie Davis, Mike Stanfield and Lingerfelt either in person or by telephone to celebrate Hack. Hack’s three daughters,Debra Nelson Lawson, Traci Dower and Codi Provins, were also on hand to honor their father.
Charlie Davis stole the show with his comments about Hack. Davis said, “Not a lot of people knew that Hack owned the Hampton Inn, and he loved to eat breakfast there. Hack, being Hack, would clean tables, get coffee for guests and such. One couple was overheard discussing whether or not to leave a tip for the elderly gentleman.” On occasion, Hack would be asked by a guest if he owned the Hampton. Davis said his response would be, “I’ve been told that.”
“Though I did not know him personally, I have heard of him, and I understand the impact his passing has had on this community. I am sorry for the family and community’s loss,” Gov. Bill Lee said of Ayer’s death.
Connect HERE to see Charlie Hutson’s photos.
Listen HERE for WLAF’s tribute to Hack. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 01/10/2020-6AM-REPUBLISHED – 01/09/2023-6AM))
My condolences to Tomi and family and for the loss in our community.
Hack was a wonderful person. Rest in peace. Prayers for the family.
Rest in peace Hack. We will all miss you greatly.
Debbie, you’re in my ❤️.
Hack was a fine man and very respectful to others. He had a big heart that I’ll always remember. My sister Juanita has joined him. They are up in Heaven and discussing business ideas. God bless everyone and everything!