AYALA, MERCEDES (MERCY) G

Of Phoenix, AZ passed away on January 25, 2011 and would have celebrated her 91st birthday in May. She was surrounded by her family as she peacefully took her last breath. She now joins her loving husband Joe “Astolfo” and is survived by her children Daniel G. Ayala, Joanne Amavisca, Arnold Ayala, her daughters-in-law Gwen and Vickie and son-in-law Braulio. She was cherished by her 9 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her remaining brother and sister, Mike Gomez and Matilde Gonzalez. Nana, up until the end you fought to stay with us, we laughed, we cried, we laughed some more and somehow we all knew you were listening and enjoying the company. Our hearts smile knowing that we were blessed to have you with us for so many years and take great comfort knowing that you will watch over us. It will not be the same here without you, but we will all carry on your spirit in our hearts and that feistiness that stayed with you until the end. We Love You! Visitation will be from 6-8pm, with a Rosary at 7pm, Friday, January 28th. Funeral Mass will be at 10am, Saturday, January 29th. Both will take place at St. Mary’s Basilica, 231 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.