Alfred J. Ayala, Jr.

Alfred John Ayala, Jr., 77, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at home surrounded by family, Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 2:45 p.m.

Alfred was born July 1, 1948 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Mexican immigrants, Alfred and Bernabé (Ramirez) Ayala, Sr.

Alfred served in the US Army from August 27, 1968 and was honorably discharged on August 26, 1970. He earned numerous medals including the Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars and a Bronze Star for his actions as an Infantryman in the Vietnam War. After returning from Vietnam Alfred married the love of his life, Kathleen Rusick on May 20, 1970 in Chicago, Illinois. They celebrated 45 years of marriage prior to her death on August 9, 2015.

Alfred is survived by one son, Freddie (Inba) Ayala of Galesburg; five daughters, Kim Ayala of Galesburg, Gina (Dan) Smallwood of Colorado, Sabrina Aguirre, Samantha Zarco, and Jackie Ayala all of Galesburg; six grandchildren, Dominic Smallwood, Cameron Smallwood, Kassandra Ayala, Alexandra Ayala, Gianna Ayala, and Alfred Ayala, IV; and seven great grandchildren. He is also survived by three brothers, Ricky Ayala of Texas, Albert Ayala of Chicago, and George (Emily) Ayala of Chicago; and two sisters, Alicia Araujo of Galesburg and Teresa (Elias) Rojas of Chicago. Along with his wife and parents, Alfred was preceded in death by one brother, Alexander Ayala; and one sister, Sylvia Lopez.

Alfred graduated from Malcolm X College in Chicago. He went on to work for over 35 years as an electrician for Rush-Presbyterian Hospital in Chicago. A man of many talents, Alfred could often be found working on different projects around the house. He had a vast knowledge of many subjects and always provided great advice to those he deeply cared for and loved. In his younger years, Alfred loved to go to the 12th Street Beach and Navy Pier area. While relaxing at home he could often be found watching a movie or listening to music. Most of all, Alfred loved to be surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Cremation will be accorded following visitation and no funeral services are planned. Memorial contributions may be directed to VFW Post #2257, 1001 Michigan Ave., Galesburg, IL 61401. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.