Mary Angela Ayala

Mary Angela Ayala, a beloved educator and community leader, passed away on May 2, 2026, in San Diego, California after a short illness. Born on November 30, 1945, in Dayton, Ohio, Mary Angela—known affectionately to all as Ms. Myke—dedicated her life to nurturing young minds and fostering athletic excellence at Nazareth School San Diego for an extraordinary 50 years. Throughout her remarkable career, she served as Sports Director, Technology Teacher, and Drama Coach, profoundly shaping the lives of countless students.

Mary Angela’s passion for education extended beyond the classroom. She held deep admiration for the Sisters of Nazareth and generously devoted many of her summers to assisting at the school, enriching its community both academically and spiritually. Her leadership extended into extracurricular activities where, as president of the Tierrasanta Junior Women's Club, she influenced initiatives that uplifted and connected women in the community.

An avid and highly skilled golfer, Mary Angela also found joy and challenge in sports off the school grounds. Her proudest accomplishments included guiding her Nazareth School Girls Volleyball Team to numerous winning seasons, culminating in multiple championship trophies—a testament to her unwavering commitment to teamwork and excellence.

Mary Angela shared a unique and lifelong bond with her identical twin sister, the late Grace Agnes Worthy-Walters. Together, they were known for their acrobatic dance performances in various venues, illustrating a shared spirit of artistry and grace that complemented Mary’s multifaceted life.

She is preceded in death by her loving parents, James H. Hennessey and Mary Angela Hennessey; her brothers James Anthony Hennessey and Timothy Hennessey; her cherished twin sister Grace Agnes Worthy-Walters; her devoted husband Gabriel C. Ayala; and her daughter Michelle Ayala.

Mary Angela is survived by her sister Mary Gertrude Hennessey; brother Thomas Michael Hennessey; sister-in-law Jutta Hennessey; grandson Gabriel Michael Ayala; grandson Michael Anthony Ayala; and granddaughter-in-law Hanna Renee Ayala. Their lives, enriched by her love and guidance, serve as a living legacy of her enduring impact.

A memorial service honoring Mary Angela’s extraordinary life will be held on June 5, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis Chapel at the San Diego Mission de Alcala, located at 10818 San Diego Mission Rd, San Diego, CA 92108. Her inurnment will follow on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 4470 Hilltop Dr, San Diego, CA 92102.

Mary Angela Ayala’s legacy as a devoted educator, mentor, athlete, and compassionate community member leaves an indelible mark. She will be remembered with profound respect and admiration by all who had the privilege to know her.