Maria Cantu Ayala

She worked for Houston Independent School District as a Plant Operator for 25 years before retiring.

She enjoyed spending time with all her family. She was the best cook and loved creating delicious meals for her children and many grandchildren, especially on all the different holiday parties she would host. In her early years you could find her in the casinos at the slot machines having a blast with some of her closest friends.

Preceded in death by her loving husband, Eliborio Ayala; granddaughters, Misty Gutierrez and Donna Martinez; great-granddaughter, Amanda Martinez and great-great-granddaughter, Layla Martinez White; devoted parents, Raul Cantu and Severiana Moreno; brothers, Jesus Cantu, Oscar Aguirre and Pablo Cantu; sister, Josefina Gonzalez; sister-in-law, Clara Cantu and nephew, Pablo Cantu Jr.

She is survived by her children, Maria Vargas, Eliborio Ayala Jr, Robert Ayala, Daniel Ayala, Diana Torres, Belinda Rosas, Reynaldo Ayala and Debra Ayala. 25 grandchildren and several great and great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Jose Cantu, Alfonzo Aguirre and Juan Aguirre; sisters, Alicia Aguirre and Aurora Aguirre; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Maria was a shining light in the lives of everyone that had the privilege of knowing her. She will be

remembered by her infectious smile, bubbly personality and devotion to her large family. While she will always be greatly missed by all her family and friends, her loving spirit and contagious laughter will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

Family and friends are invited to attend services for Maria Cantu Ayala at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023, in the Grand Chapel on Wednesday, June 18th, 2025. Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM for the public and the Rosary will begin at 7:00 PM. On Thursday, June 19th, 2025, the doors to the Grand Chapel will open at 1:00 PM, Chapel Service at 2:00 PM and Burial Services at 3:00 PM.

Information for Maria Cantu Ayala's Celebration of Life to follow.