On January 2, 2025 our family lost a dear and precious soul: Neva Denise Ayala. While our hearts are saddened that Neva was taken away so early in life, God reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5 that those who are in Christ will receive a new body in the presence of our Lord and Savior. This promise and good news brings joy; unspeakable joy! Hallelujah to Jesus Christ! Neva was born September 14, 1972 in Newport, Rhode Island to Larry Williams and Yoland Ayala. Neva's warm smile, contagious laugh and kind soul touched the hearts of everyone she knew. Neva was passionate about family, friends and food; those were the things that filled her heart with joy. New England was her home, and she was an avid New England sports fan.

Neva also had a passion for inspiring the younger generation to achieve and reach their fullest potential. Her faith in God sustained her as she found joy with Him each new day. Neva is survived by her father: Larry Williams, Morganton, NC; her siblings: BernNadette Jenkins, Nadine (Herman) Jones of Richmond, VA; Roberto Ayala, Dallas, Tx; Kim Pellon, Virginia Beach, VA; Terri (Derek) Holman, Chesapeake, VA; and Darlene Ayala, Newport, RI. Her North Carolina aunts and uncle: Callie (Charles) Wallace; Greensboro, NC; Bettye (Millard) Harris, Linda (James) Fleming, Paul Williams, and Barbara N. Williams, all of Morganton, NC. She also had a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. She is preceded in death by her mother, Yoland "Yo- Yo" Ayala and her niece Jessica Yolanda Greene. Neva leaves us with many fond memories that are full of love and laughter. She will be missed but never forgotten.

On January 26, 2025 there will be a prayer service at Mission AME at 12:30 p.m. The receiving of friends will begin at 2:00 at Gaston Chapel, which will be followed by a Memorial Service at 2:30 p.m.