Felix A. Ayala

Felix A. Ayala, 77, of Orlando, passed away on May 26, 2013.

Felix worked as a Facilities Manager for Calderon Belts and Bags.

Felix is survived by his loving daughter, Lillian Agosto, son-in-law, Edwin Agosto, granddaughters, Christina L. Agosto and Jennifer M. Agosto, and brother, Angelo Ayala.

Felix was preceded in death by his father, Felix Ayala, mother, Marcelina Marrero-Ayala, and his wife, Margarita Ayala.

He was born on May 15, 1936 in Corozal, Puerto Rico. He and his family moved to New York when he was just 15 years old and grew up on 103rd street in Manhattan, also known as Spanish Harlem.

He attended Benjamin Franklin High School where he met his best friend Willy Pabon. Together they occasionally skipped class and went to the Eagle Theater where they would watch 3 movies for only a quarter. Inseparable, they began their 40-year long career as factory workers at Calderon Belts and Bags.

In 1957, he married Margarita and began the journey as parents in 1959 when they had their only daughter, Lillian. Felix was a dedicated worker, working 6 days a week to provide for his family. On Sundays, he would spend the day with his family, going to the beach or other family outings. The Calderon Factory relocated to Europe, so Felix decided to retire after a 40 year career.

In 1983, his daughter married Edwin Agosto. Felix and Margarita were thrilled to welcome him into the family and together they lived in a 2 family home in the Bronx.
In 1990 and 1992, Edwin and Lillian had their children Christina and Jennifer. With a growing family, the six of them decided to move to Orlando, Florida.

Unfortunately, Felix's wife passed away shortly after Jennifer was born, and just before the family made it to Florida.
Edwin, Lillian, Christina, Jennifer, and Felix began their new life in Orlando in 1995.

Felix was an amazing grandfather. While Edwin and Lillian were at work, Felix helped raise his two granddaughters. He took them to school, doctor's appointments, and extracurricular events. He learned how to cook, garden, and manage the daily household necessities. His energy and enthusiasm not only captivated the hearts of his immediate family, but of all who knew and loved him.

He was like a grandfather to many…always encouraging, genuine in his words and ready to greet you with a big hug and kiss that would lift up ones spirit, no matter what was going on!

Felix's love of life was evident in his smile and laughter. It is of no wonder that he made friends so easily wherever he went. Whether it was at his local Publix's Supermarket, Good Shepherd Church where he attended Sunday mass for many years, and with the nurses that he spent his last weeks in the hospital.

Felix was a true inspiration and having touched the hearts of family, friends and strangers alike, he will forever be remembered!