Carlos Mario Ayala passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, with his wife, daughter and family by his side. Carlos was born in Corpus Christi on February 12, 1957 to Rafael and Maria Lydia Ayala.

He graduated from West Oso High School in 1976. After graduating, he attended Del Mar College where he studied and earned his certificate in welding. He later continued his education to become a Q.C. Inspector at Ohmstede where he was a dedicated employee for 37 years. He had a profession that was also a passion.

Carlos held many titles in his life, but his favorite role was being a devoted father to his two daughters, Jennifer and Lydia.  He was always there to offer his love, support, and encouragement. He was very proud of their accomplishments. Whenever they needed his advice or help, he was there to provide it.

Carlos always made himself available to family and friends whenever his help was needed. No task was too small or too big for him to handle. His hobbies included cooking BBQ, spending time with his grandchildren, fishing, gardening, watching football and baseball. He was an enthusiastic fan of the Houston Astros. He committed much of his time laboring at his ranch on the weekends while listening to music. He also enjoyed traveling with his family on vacations.  Carlos had a sense of humor that was comical and fun.

He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Pilar Catholic Church for many years. He was fondly nicknamed "El Cocinero" by Monsignor Marcos Martinez because he would be in charge of cooking BBQ at the Alter Server's annual field trip to Padre Island Beach.

Carlos is survived by his high school sweetheart Iris. They were married for 43 memorable years and were with each other through all of life's ups and downs. He is also survived by his daughter Jennifer, her husband Roger, and grandchildren Isabella and Jorge;{Bryan}; as well as his sisters Connie, Gloria, Linda (Leon), Esmenia (Rudy) and Modesta (Rene); his brothers Ruben and Johnny (John); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Carlos was preceded in death by his daughter, Lydia Marie Ayala, whom he loved and cherished deeply. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Juan, Damacio, Joe, Ralph, Martin and Marcos and by his beloved parents.

He will be carried to his final resting place by pallbearers, Joe, Michael, Martin, John Albert, Ruben and Albert.  Carlos made an impact in many lives which left memories behind. Until we meet again.

Public visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 28, 2023 at Guardian Funeral Home Chapel ''A". with the Holy rosary to be recited at 6:30 p.m. that evening.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 noon on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at Our Lady of Pilar Catholic Church, 1101 Bloomington.  Burial will follow in Rose Hill Memorial Park, 2731 Comanche St.