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Samuel Ayala Obituary
Sandy Ayala stayed close to his mother and three siblings. So close, in fact, that after he married, he insisted that he and his wife live with the family in the apartment where he was raised on East 113th Street, in East Harlem.
After he and his wife, Leyda Ayala, separated, he often took his daughter Samantha to the gym where he worked part-time as a personal trainer, and during the summer he would take her and her new half siblings to Coney Island and Orchard Beach.
On Sept. 11, he was working overtime as a banquet arranger at Windows on the World ‹ after his usual all-night shift ‹ to save money for a gift for Samantha's 12th birthday.
But that dedication was mixed with anxiety. "He was always afraid he would die young and never live to see his daughter grow up," Mrs. Ayala said. "He used to say he wouldn't live past 36." There was no real reason for it, since he had been weight- training all his life and was in superb physical condition, she added.
He died a month after his 36th birthday.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Aida Porto
Earlier today
Sam he was one of a kind a lovely respect brother in law a great dad husband he Cary his heart on his leave he was there if you needed help. Thanks to him I got my kids with me.I will always be grateful for that,him and my sister Lucy his wife at the time took my kids in treating them like his own On one of my worst moments of my life he was there.You must be gone but you will never be forgotten always in my prayers in your heart.your angel in heaven love always sandy R.I.P
A C
September 10, 2024
You will forever be deeply missed tio ❤
Cindy Roe
August 31, 2021
Remembering Samuel on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
The Lucas Family
October 24, 2018
We send our deep heartfelt sympathy to your family. May God continue to give you the help and comfort needed everyday. Sandy will always be fondly remembered.
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Mario Ayala
September 11, 2016
I want to pay my condolences to Mr Ayala. My God bless you and your family.
Maria Williams
September 11, 2016
You're not forgotten..
November 4, 2015
I am sorry for your loss, It is difficult to lose a love one. Satisfying answers to life's big questions. Please read Proverb 2:15
Stacey Moore
September 19, 2015
My 7th grade son chose your loved one to honor this year. Students had to choose a hero from 9/11 and my son chose to present a short power point about Sandy's life. He chose Sandy because his last name is Ayala, the same last name as my children's father. Just wanted you to know that, hoping you find some comfort in knowing that Sandy is not forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. If you would like a copy of the power point, please feel free to contact me. America will not forget...
Cris C
September 13, 2015
Rest in Peace. I never knew Sandy, but in the days after 9/11, I rode the train with a woman who I believe was his sister that was on her way to the WTC to look for him. She was carrying posters with his info and we struck up a conversation. She told me his name, where he worked and that he had a daughter. I never forgot about him. I look for his name in the list of victims every year and say a prayer for him and his family. Rest in peace
Doreen
September 11, 2015
Rip Sandy
Del Newberry
May 8, 2015
My prayers today go out for Sandy's friends and family and I hope they feel comforted knowing that Sandy's memory lives on. With much love from Texas.
Francisca Ayala
February 28, 2014
May the pearly gates open wide to receive the man who loved so much, and will dearly be missed forever.
Wally Soto
January 22, 2013
From East Side Gym. He always had time to listen to me and talk to me. He gave me some of the best advices in the world of fitness. He was an immense part of my early bodybuilding life.
I will miss him...may he rest in piece with the legends of fitness.
Barbara Boam
April 26, 2012
Barbara Boam & Kim Rogers walked a mile for you (mile #99) on 4/24/12 as a dedication to your life.
Amy
January 11, 2012
Rest in peace! We will never forget!
September 11, 2011
Rest in peace sandy
Lillian Ayala
Kymberli Colbourne
September 11, 2011
We hold you in our hearts.
September 5, 2011
Wow what a touching tribute. I'm sure Sandy also believed he would see his daughter again. Its so comforting to know that one day soon Sandy will be reunited with all his family and friends. Until then, never forgotten.
Mercedes Ayala-Street
September 2, 2011
We will never forget. Rest in peace.
Doug Abraham
August 11, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Tony Lopez, 1st floor, 2070
Antonio Lopez
October 19, 2008
Sandman, that is what he wanted us to call him. When we were kids, Sandy and I stuck together like glue. He was my best friend. I remember a day when I was at home sick. He brought me grapes so I could feel better. We use to love going to Orchard Beach, and Palham Bay Park. I remeber catching a one eye gold fich in Central Park. I gave it to him, and he put it in his fish tank and called it Moby Dick. We ran around 2070 till no end. If he did something, I did it with him. As time went on, he made his life and I made mine, but Sandman will always be my brother. My God bless his soul, and his family.
luis perez
September 13, 2008
Sandy, I knew you and your brother Sidney from back at Eastside. You used to bring your beautiful daughter to the Gym. You was alw. ays full of life and a fighter. I know you tried to fight your way out of the Tower and on your way knowing you... you stopped and tried to help others on your way. May God Bless you and your family. May you rest in Eternal Peace and in the Love that God provides.
bryanna graham
September 9, 2008
i might not know you but from what i here you sound like a very caring person and i wish your family the best.
hannah issifu-ayala
September 9, 2008
Sandy was a great 1st cousin to my mother. I would have love to meet him. his smiles make me cry.
Kristine
October 12, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vane. We will always remember.
Rene Colon
September 28, 2006
I KNEW SANDY AS "SANDMAN" HE WAS OLDER THAN THE REST OF THE CREW I HUNG OUT IN JOHNSON. WHEN I HEARD THAT SANDY LOST HIS LIFE ON 9-11-01 I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT. I WOULD NEVER HAD THOUGHT SOMETHING THIS BIG WOULD HIT SO CLOSE TO HOME. I WOULD REMEBER SANDMAN AS A LAIDBACK, QUIET, AND CALM PERSON. MY FAMILY IN EAST HARLEM MY MOMS TERE, BROTHER GIL,AND MYSELF RENE, AND ALSO THE CREW MONDE, JT, TONY, THE SHARK UNIT, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE SANDY.
September 19, 2006
May your family remember the wonderfuly times you shared during your brief stay on Earth.
May You Rest With Liberty & Peace Samuel
Alma Iris Ayala
September 12, 2006
Samuel, I am so devastated for what happened to you and all the other victims of 9/11... I cry day and night for you... Your entire "Ayala" family loves you and will never forget you, Sandy! You were such a handsome young man, just starting to live a new life... We will never forget you, Sweetie... May God Bless you and the entire "Ayala" family... God Bless America! ~Almita~
Sadie Ayala Capella
September 11, 2006
My condolences to the Ayala family. My name is Sadie Ayala Capella. My Father, Felix Ayala from Sabana Grande passed away when I was 8 years old (1958) and I never got to meet his family except for a brother named Juan Ayala. Even if we are not family I still feel a kinship towards you. May Sammy rest in peace.
Lillian Ayala
August 21, 2006
Sandy my dear Sandy you will never be forgotten 5 yrs almost here from that dreadfull day. I still remember everything as if it was yesterday. you are now in the heavenly kingdom may God bless you and your family. 'Gigi" Lillian
Ayala
P Tabbernor
August 20, 2006
In memory....
Lillian Ayala
September 12, 2005
To the Ayala family and everyone who loved sandy. May God Bless you all its been 4 yrs yesterday I went to Ground Zero to pay my respect I will go every yr. I worked at the WTC North tower on the 28 th Fl. I was there on that day. I wish everyday that sandy could have made it out. may God be with you leyda & samantha. Much love to you.
Gigi
Mercedes Ayala
September 11, 2005
My thoughts are with my brother and the family today and always as we remember you. I know your mom when home to be with you and you are not alone anymore.
Lillian Ayala
August 4, 2005
My Condolenece to Sandy Family I grew with Sandy in the projects at 2060 3 rd Ave for 22 yrs. I use to see him running around in the park I always saw him so adorable. May God bless his daughter and her mom.
Gigi.
Kira
April 29, 2004
God Bless the family of Sandy - I was very touched when I read his story.
Ricardo Ayala
November 27, 2003
May God bless you and look after your family. I Don't know you but upon learning of you through news articles I decided to find out as much as I could. God has a special place for you next to him for your sacrifice Just so Your lovely daughter could have a gift for her birthday. You will not be forgotten.
Adminda Cintron
September 11, 2003
God Bless You and Your Family. Rest in Peace Amen.
leyda
October 4, 2002
First of all I'd like to send my condolences. and believe it or not your story sent chills down my spine. Let me first tell you that my first name is Leyda and second that I also have a daughter named Samantha although she is only 6yrs old.
But it seemed that for a quick
moment I actually felt the tremendous loss your family just went thru. I could never imagine what life would be for us without my
husband.....
my thoughts and prayers go out to all your family and friends especially Leyda and Samantha.
Oct. 4, 2002
William Ayala
September 12, 2002
Though I never did have the opportunity to meet you, as a fellow Ayala, I was touched when I heard your name read yesterday. Coincidentally my ex-wife is named Sandy and that was freaky. The fact that I was born and raised in the Bronx, has caused this tragedy to really hit home. God bless your family and all of those who lost loved ones. You will always be in my prayers! Suerte!
MARIA WILLIAMS
September 11, 2002
Once again I visit this tribute even though it's been a year it's still hard for me to accept that Sandy is gone. All I can say is that you are not forgotten. I still pray for you all. Sandy will forever be in my heart. MAY GOD BLESS THE AYALA FAMILY AND ALL THE FAMILIES THAT HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY 9/11. GOD BLESS US ALL.
Bruce Street
September 11, 2002
As i am sure you know, Sandy, I attended your memoral service last October with your aunt, Mercie Ayala. Your aunt, your daughter Samantha, your entire family, all of your loved ones introduced me to you, that sad evening. I don't know you as if I had actually shaken your hand and looked into your eyes, but I heard and saw enough to know that i would have liked you. By the way, your name scrolled across my screen and sounded through my speakers three or four times today (9/11/02). i stayed away from work to sit with CNN, MSNBC and FOX News to try to understand - as i have been unable to - how it is that you and thousands of other innocent souls in New York City, the Pentagon and Shanksville, PA became objects of the same sort of barbarity that most of us had heretofore known only through photos and narratives from far away places. On the morning of your memorial service, your Aunt Mercie, your Uncle George, his wife and I were within one short block of where you lay. Later in the month, your aunt and I were in a field in Shanksville, PA, seeking to understand an act whose meaning will never be disclosed to us (I know that, tonight). Speaking only for myself, Sandy, i must tell you that I cannot hate in your behalf nor can i be cynical for you. After today, after i finish this for your guestbook, i am going to have to rest my heart awhile. And you...well, you take care, too.
Norma Puig-Reyes
September 11, 2002
My heart goes out to you. May God bless you and give you strength. He is now one of God's angels
Catherine Kronke
September 11, 2002
At my high school in Houston, as a September 11th tribute, every student was given a braclet with the name of a victim of the WTCD on it. My braclet, neon orange and a perpetual reminder to pray, says the name "Samuel (Sandy) Ayala, 36". I just wanted to tell his family, friends, and anyone touched by his life, that I am praying for him and you. He seemed like a wonderful person and I don't doubt that he is missed. God Bless.
Catherine, 17
Filomena Ayala
September 11, 2002
I looked up Sandy Ayala because, I heard his name read over the Television at Ground Zero this morning (at the memorial service.) We have the same last name and I wanted to find out about him. His picture looks like one of my brothers. May God bless you Sandy. My heart goes out to his children on this day. God bless you all.
Martha Rodriguez
September 11, 2002
My prayers are with you and your family! One year has passed but we will never forget!!!
Mercedes Ayala
August 17, 2002
A year has gone by but I will never forget those terrible hours and days after you and so many others were lost. I will always remember you Sandy. My love to my brother and all my family.
Mercedes
Lynn
June 25, 2002
I didn't know your family...but was touched by the things that were said of Sandy...so tragic...so young. Anyway, know that you are in many peoples thoughts and prayers and will remain there. God Bless
Sandra Padilla
May 21, 2002
Samantha, Titi Telen
I'm Sandra, Tita's & Johnny's daughter. I found out about Sandy, since I was in New York that day, and I'm really sorry I couldn't be with you at that time of terrible pain and grieve. But I most tell you, he is with God, in a better place, looking out for your happiness and well being. And I'm sure his heart is yours forever.
I'll always love you titi, and God will bless you and Samantha forever. And remember, someday we will find each other again, and this time to live forever in God's heaven.
Love you so much, Sandra and Aramis
maria williams
May 16, 2002
Seven months have passed since the World Trade Center tragic events and to this day I still pray for the family of Sandy. I will always remember him and always keep him in my heart. May God Bless all the people affected by this horrible tragedy. My prayers are with all. Miss you Sandy! GOD BLESS
Alanna Allen
March 18, 2002
He sounds like a great father. Terrific friend, and that is kinda a freaky that he said he wouldnt live past 36 wierd.. My prayers will be with ya'll and his lovely kids....Love houston tx
Adminda Cintron
March 11, 2002
I want to start by saying I'm very sorry for your lost.But must of all for mines.See I'm your cousin Mindy who nevr had the pleasure of meeting you. My mother is Signia Ayala De Cintron.I only knew your Dad whom I've loved but haven't seen in a very lone time I'm sorry I know that you are in a better place God will take care of your Family for you know. I moved from New York but still have it in my heart and that day i too die with you in my heart To your brothers and sisters I would love to meet you before it's to late again i'm sorry God Bless You All with my heart
From Your Cousin MindyAnd Children Cynthia and William Amaro
sarah ferchichi
March 11, 2002
iam so sorry for your life,my thoughts are with you all especially his young daughter..
sarah
Stephen Mercado
January 24, 2002
Its hard to put feelings into writing so let me just say that I am sorry for your loss. I am a cousin of Sandys and regret never staying in close contact with most family members, especially good ones like Sandy. Its been about eighteen years that I have not seen him, but I still have a picture of that time--I will add that picture at another time. Leyda and Samantha, you will always be in my prayers and I hope to meet you sometime soon. My mother is Mercedes Ayala. Love always
Steve and Lori
Teresa Jahn
January 9, 2002
We are very sorry for your loss of Samuel. May you always feel the warmth of his love surround you. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
maria williams
January 3, 2002
My deepest sympathy to the family. I hope and pray for you everyday and ask GOD that HE helps you through this difficult time. I personally knew Sandy and he was a great man. My prayers are with him.
rachel purcell
December 7, 2001
My prayers and thoughts are with your family through out this holiday season. God Bless
tiffani covais
December 5, 2001
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember this memorial. May God watch over his children.
Tiffani
IRENE STAPINSKI
December 4, 2001
GOD BLESS SAMUEL SANDY AYALA AND MAY
HE REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA
AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Heather
November 15, 2001
I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless you.
Mason
October 25, 2001
I am so very sorry for your loss. Keep Sandy's spirit alive and with you always. The universe remains abundant even amidst the horror of this seemingly crazy world. Actively look for the good, the beauty...in sunsets, laughter, little squirrels, the unchanging seasons, the mighty oak that grew from a tiny acorn...feel that hope...and let peace and love surround you rather than carrying the anger and hatred. It is poison to your spirit. Much love to you. Our country is with you in your darkest hours....feel the power!
Perry and Liz Williams
October 17, 2001
Our condolences and deepest sympathy. May God bless and comfort in your time of sorrow.
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