Pedro Ayala

Pedro “Pete” Ayala, 52, of Donna and McAllen, TX, passed away peacefully in his sleep

on Thursday morning, December 19, 2024.

Pete was a very talented blues guitarist who played professionally since his teenage

years. His skills made him a much sought after musician across the Rio Grande Valley

and the Southwest. His first professional job was playing guitar with the country band,

Tumbleweed, of which he spoke of very fondly and referred to those years as his “life on

the road”. He lived as many musicians do, and in time the “playing hard” lifestyle

caught up to him. As his health began to fail him, Pete focused on establishing a more

conventional lifestyle and earned his Associate’s in Computer Science. He worked very

hard on his sobriety and considered that one of his greatest achievements. He assisted

others with their similar struggles offering support with his testimony and spiritualism.

Armed with this new strength, Pete began playing music again. He found much joy in

rediscovering his musical self and was excited to build up his stage and recording

equipment again. His final years were spent on a personal quest to redeem himself and

reconcile with all whom he may have hurt. He was helpful, loving, gracious and

charitable in his actions, putting his own health issues aside to assist his elderly

parents. His strength and conviction to change his life surpassed any musical talent

beyond all measure.

Pete is survived by his oldest son, Raymond Tyler from his first marriage; his wife,

Yanet, and their son, Aeon Joseph; his parents, Ramon and Enriqueta; his older sister,

San Juanita (Janey); and many nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his

sister Alma (Allie Shapiro) and nephew, Robert Barajas. A Rosary will be prayed in his

honor on Thursday, December 26, at 4:00 PM at McAllen Funeral Home with public

visitation until 8:00 PM. Burial will follow the following morning on Friday, December 27,

at 11:00 AM at La Piedad Cemetery in McAllen, TX.