Sarah "Rah" (Ross) Ayala

Sarah A. Ayala, 69, known lovingly to many as “Rah”, passed away surrounded by her loving family on March 27, 2026, at Jersey Shore University Hospital. Born on July 29, 1956, in Long Branch, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Julia (Brand) and Jack A. Ross. Sarah lived a life marked by devotion to her family, kindness, and quiet strength, and she will be remembered always for the warmth she brought to those around her.

Sarah grew up in Keyport, New Jersey, where she lived her entire life. On June 22, 1974, she married the love of her life, Isaac Ayala, and together they began their life in Keyport, where they remained to raise their family. Their marriage was built on love and commitment, and they lived many happy years together before his passing in May of 2014.

Before her retirement, Sarah worked for many years as a Certified Nursing Assistant and caregiver. Her work reflected the very best of who she was, because she gave of herself freely and compassionately to others. Whether caring for family, friends, or those in need, she was tireless and selfless in her devotion. She offered comfort during illness, helped with childcare, and gave her time and energy wherever it was needed. Her presence was a source of reassurance, and her care was given with sincerity and grace.

Sarah was a woman of many simple and beautiful joys. She loved sewing and was an avid reader. Cooking was one of her greatest pleasures, and it was truly her love language, expressed through the meals she prepared and the care she put into feeding others. Christmas was one of her favorite times of the year, and she embraced the season with warmth and enthusiasm. She also loved the beach and the feeling of the sun, finding peace and happiness in those moments. She treasured her family above all else and found her greatest joy in being surrounded by those she loved. Family reunions were especially important to her, and she cherished every opportunity to gather, laugh, and make memories with the people who meant the most to her.

She was predeceased by her adoring parents, and her brother, Harry L. Ross.  Sarah was a loving and devoted mother to her daughter, Julie Boese, and a proud grandmother to Megan Pulcine and her husband Tom, Katie Boese, and Courtney Boese.   She is also survived by her dear siblings, Randy Ross and his wife Camille, Cindy DeSante and her husband Joe, Jack Ross and his wife Annette, Bobby Ross and his wife Carolyn, and Frances Lawson and her partner Tony Provenzano. Sarah also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, including Alexa, Jacqueline, Danielle, Jenna, Joanna, Jessica, Samantha, Jack, Jake, Tyler, Kirsten, and Jessica E., all of whom held a special place in her heart. Her family was a source of great pride and happiness, and she remained deeply connected to them throughout her life.

Those who knew Sarah will remember her as selfless, loving, and generous. She had a gentle spirit and a giving heart, and she touched many lives through her kindness and compassion. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the care she gave, and the countless memories shared by those who loved her. Though she will be deeply missed, her life stands as a lasting example of devotion, strength, and unconditional love.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM and Thursday morning, April 2, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 3269 State Highway/Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730.  A prayer service will be offered at the funeral home at 10:30 AM on Thursday morning.  Interment will follow at Old Tennent Cemetery, 454 Tennent Road, Tennent, New Jersey 07763.  For information, directions, or to send condolences to the family, please visit, www.shorepointfh.com.

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