Santa Ayala, beloved matriarch and cherished community member, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Aug. 25, 2025, at Hershey Medical Center.
Born on May 8, 1935, in Patillas, Puerto Rico, she had a spirit that touched the lives of many. Santa was a dedicated seamstress, with a passion for her craft that she honed during her remarkable career.
She was a tireless advocate for her family and friends, dedicating herself to raising her children, Iris Rohena, (late) Maritza Villaronga, (late) Ivelisse Perez, Raquel Ayala-Malave, Abraham Ayala, Janet Gulden, and Hilda Dimopoulos. Alongside her children, she delighted in the love of her 19 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, fostering strong family bonds that were central to her life. She was preceded in death by her father, Luis DeAlba; and siblings, Inez Vazquez and Luis DeAlba.
A steadfast teacher of the Bible, Santa served as a deaconess in women’s ministry and was a long-time member of the Primitive Christian Church in New York City and Casa de Adoracion Revive. Her unwavering faith guided her through life and inspired those who were lucky enough to know her. Santa enjoyed cooking, sewing, reading, and solving puzzles, always finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Santa’s family will honor her memory through a series of services. A public viewing will be held at Christman’s Funeral Home Inc., on Sept. 4, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m. Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service at Kimmerlings Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest on the same day.
Memorial contributions may be made to Casa de Adoracion Revive, 1215 E. Old Cumberland St., Lebanon, PA 17042.
