Manuel “Manny” Ayala Garza, Jr., 82, was surrounded by his family when he peacefully died at 3:26 p.m. in his home on Sunday, February 7, 2016. Manny was born in Kerrville, TX, to the late Manuel Ayala and Juanita Ayala Garza, Sr. He married Reva Clemons on June 16, 1984, and she survives.
Manny retired in 1995 from General Tire, where he had worked in Production for 38 years, as well as traveled with the engineers as a translator. He also retired at the age of 81 from Gas City City Hall, where he had served as a custodian for 16 years. Manny was a member of the Gas City Moose, and he attended Church of God of Prophecy in Gas City. He loved working in his garden and cooking for his family and friends. Manny also enjoyed watching old western movies and listening to mariachi music. Most of all, Manny can be remembered for his giving nature. He was a friend to many, and he deeply loved spending time with his grandchildren. Manny will be missed dearly by numerous family members and friends.
In addition to his wife of 31 years, survivors include children, Daniel (Brenda) Garza, Lafayette, Robert “Bobby” Garza, CA, Jesse Garza, Greenwood, and David Garza, Gas City; step-children, Theresa (Bill) Gillespie, Brian (Jackie) Watkins, and Steven (Cristina) Watkins, all from FL; grandchildren, Alicia (Neal) Tull, Kristen Garza, Melissa (Keith) Ailshie, Robert Garza, Jason Garza, and Jessica Garza; step-grandchildren, Dustin Gillespie, Brandon Gillespie, Heather Watkins, Stacia Harnish, Tiffany Burgen, Matthew Young, Steve Watkins, and Josh Kennedy; great-granddaughter, Penelope “Penny” Ann Tull; siblings, Stella Clemons, Olga Duriuex, Lucy Flores, and Jesse Garza; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Also preceding him in death were his son, Mark Garza, and siblings, Celia, Joe, and Mary.
Friends and family may call from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 10, 2016, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.
Services for Manny will be at 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2016, at the funeral home with Pastor David Morris officiating. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Gas City.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Family LifeCare, 705 S. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN 46953.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.