The family and friends of Maria E. Ayala, an educator, Virgin Islands historian and culture bearer for over 50 years, died on Sept. 19. She was affectionately known as “Marion Hill” or “Nana.”
She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Felipe Ayala Sr.
She is survived by her
Two children — Ingrid Marie Ayala and Felipe Ayala Jr.
Three grandchildren — Terriya Adelle, Terrell Awlando and Teryssa Amoi’ Thomas
One great-grandson — Tahir-Salehe Ajai’i Richards
One adopted daughter — Darlene Paul
And her family — Curt, K’Dani and Jiovanni Paul
Four sisters — Lyra Anthony, Lyra Hodge, Allewine Hill, and Darlene Forbes
Two brothers — Ludrick Thomas Sr. and Roy “Panhandle” Hill
Three sisters-in-law — Luz Maria Rentas, Maria Theresa Klyvert and Rita Benjamin Thomas
Two brothers-in-law — Aubrey Anthony and Egbert Forbes
One aunt — Ida Frett
And a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and friends too numerous to mention.
There will be a first viewing from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 15, at Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Cremation Center. A second viewing will be held at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m., Friday, Oct. 16, at Christ Church Methodist in Market Square.
Acknowledgements and tributes for the booklet may be emailed to ayalatributes1@gmail.com, no later than Thursday, Oct. 5.
Expressions of sympathy to the family may be made online at www.turnbullsfuneralhomevi.com. Professional Services have been entrusted to Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services., 3815 Crown Bay, Ste 10, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands 00802.
