Susana Maria De Ayala

Susana Maria "Chana" Marquez De Ayala 81, a loving and devoted wife and mother of 5 sons, passed away quietly while surrounded by her family on May 19, 2018. She was born in Havana, Cuba on September 23, 1936 and came of age during the turbulent period of 1950's Cuba. As a teenager, she attended Ursuline Academy in New Orleans, Louisiana and often reflected fondly on the Sisters that helped in her faith and young adult formation.

Susana married Rafael (Ralph) De Ayala on September 14, 1957. He was the love of her life and they were blessed with 50 years of marriage. In his later years, she lovingly cared for him during his long goodbye. Their union initiated a colorful life journey. After fleeing communist Cuba in 1960, they settled in Miami. Susana juggled two toddlers while expecting their third as she waited for her husband's return from the Bay of Pigs Invasion. During this time, she cemented lifelong friendships with other young exiled mothers. The adventure continued, making homes in both Dallas and Rio De Janeiro, Brazil before settling down in Houston in 1974.

Susana's life revolved around her family, supporting her sons in the bleachers and at the homework table. She was also a surrogate mother to many of her sons' friends. They often came over just to see her knowing they would be nurtured, loved, and most certainly fed. She was always happiest with a house full of teenagers causing a ruckus. Many wonderful memories revolved around football. While she never truly understood the game, she loved watching her sons play. Susana will also be remembered for her vibrant personality and welcoming spirit. She truly never met a stranger. Susana loved music and dancing, captivating the room when dancing the cha-cha or salsa. She was full of passion and had an infectious zest for life.

Waiting for Susana in heaven is her husband Ralph, her parents Emilio Marquez and Juana Victoria Marquez, and her sister Teresita Marquez de Silva. She is survived by her 5 sons; Ralph (Jared Vercher), Carlos (Joanie), Kiki, Michael and Mano (Melissa); grandchildren; Emily (Shahin Jamea), Natalie (Andrew Lindsey), Eliza (Drew Reinking), Michael, Carlos (Dorothy Claire), Paul, Alex, Christopher, Christian, Christina, Marcus, Matthew and Mitchell; and great granddaughters Margot and Ava. She is also survived by her brother Emilio Marquez and five nieces and nephews.

The Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, May 24, at St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic Church, 10503 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Texas 77042. A reception will follow at the adjacent community center. The family wishes to thank Sandra Cordova and Adys Martinez who lovingly cared for Mom during her final years.