Pamela Sue Ayres Durkin

Pamela Sue Ayres Durkin, 81, of Indianapolis, passed away November 10, 2024. She was born December 27, 1942 in Beech Grove, IN, to the late Herman Lewis and Elizabeth “Betty” (King) Beem. Pam was a 1961 graduate of Arsenal Technical High School. She was a proud State of Indiana employee, working as an administrative assistant for 32 years before retiring in 2009. Pam was a long time member of Irvington Presbyterian Church, where she was active in various groups over the years. Pam enjoyed being social and often met up with friends and family at her favorite restaurants. Pam loved traveling and receiving postcards from her family members on their various travels. She likely received over 100 postcards over the years. Pam loved flowers, diligently watering her potted plants on her porch every day throughout the Spring and Summer to ensure her house was bright and cheerful. Pam was an avid home decorator. She especially loved decorating for the holidays. Pam had a decoration for every season and every surface in her house. She loved staying up late watching movies and TV shows, especially shows on HGTV. A lifelong shopper, Pam loved to shop for her home, as well as for her family. Known affectionately as “Ma” by her grandchildren, she was always buying gifts for those she loved. Pam had a special style, always matching her outfits and jewelry to the seasons and holidays. Pam had earrings for every occasion. Pam’s family was very important to her, and she loved visiting and spending time with them most of all. Visitation will be Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel, 9606 East Washington Street. Funeral services will be Friday, November 15, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Irvington Presbyterian Church, 55 Johnson Avenue, Indianapolis. An additional visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service. Pam is survived by her loving husband of 15 years, Patrick Durkin; brother, Lewis Beem; sons, Jeffrey (Deborah) Emminger, Scott (Joan) Emminger, and Christopher Ayres; grandchildren, Tyler Walker, Karen Emminger, Sarah Emminger, Tristan Emminger, and Rachel Emminger; and great-grandchildren, Chloe Walker and Liam Walker. She is preceded in death by her first husband, James Emminger; and her second husband, Robert Ayres, Jr. Memorial contributions may be made in Pam’s honor to the Irvington Presbyterian Church Endowment, 55 Johnson Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219 or online at https://www.irvpresby.org/

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Pamela Sue Ayres Durkin

December 27, 1942 - November 10, 2024