Thomas Richard Ayala

Thomas was born on October 23, 1953 in San Jose, California to Thomas and Mary Ayala.

Thomas worked for Pacific Gas & Electric for many years before starting a new career in cross country truck driving. He first began with a company as a driver. He later purchased his own truck and became a contractor. Tom saw a good portion of the United States from behind a windshield.

Thomas loved music. In high school he learned to play the trumpet and was in the marching band. With his musical talent, he played with different musicians and different bands till in his 30's. The band, "Inner City, Stoned Brown" were some of the bands, that almost changed everything for Tom. Warner Brothers heard them perform and wanted to sign them but unfortunately circumstances changed that with the unexpected passing of a band member. In his trucking career, music became a way to help pass the miles, keep informed of the news and weather, and way to keep a lonely man company while rolling down the empty highways.

One important achievement in Tom's life was winning a perfect 300 bowling game in the ABC tournament. (American Bowling Congress). He proudly displayed on his finger for years, a big silver ring with a garnet gemstone in the center.

In September of 2017, Tom experienced a stroke that caused him to slow down in life. In 2018, he experienced a major stroke that left him partially paralyzed and weakened his ability to speak and be independent, but recovered from being paralyzed. As an avid movie fan, this was something Tom could still enjoy by himself if he chose to. Many things required the help of others but when it came to a good movie, Tom was his own man.

He is survived by his loving sister Yolanda Ayala and brother William Silva and wife Ellen. He will be missed by his nephews Michael, Tom and Peter Silva and nieces Susie and Bianca Silva. He was not only an awesome uncle, but he was a great and a great great uncle as well and a very proud one at that.

He will be missed by his many cousins and good friends.

A graveside service will take place at Los Gatos Memorial Park located at 2255 Los Gatos Almaden Road, San Jose, CA 95124 on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 at 10:00 AM.