Maureen Ann Sanderson Ayala, Moe, "Mighty Moe"

Maureen Ann Sanderson Ayala, Moe, "Mighty Moe", a cherished soul known for her warmth and boundless love, passed away on January 20, 2026, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 3, 1958, and lived a life that embraced the rich tapestry of her Irish and Scottish heritage, cultivating a sense of pride that she passed on to her family.

Maureen was a devoted wife to Gary Ayala, with whom she shared a beautiful marriage since May 24, 1980. The couple exchanged their vows at St. Patrick Church in St. Charles, Illinois, surrounding themselves with love and joy that would flourish throughout their life together. On April 9th they would have celebrated their 50th anniversary of their "first epically peculiar date" as she described it.  Maureen's greatest pride came from her family; she often expressed how being a mother and grandmother filled her heart with an immeasurable joy. She leaves behind three beloved children: Lindsay Ayala, Tony (Jennifer) Ayala, and Lauren (Greg) Rutherford, who will carry on her legacy with the same love and dedication she embodied.

Ten prized grandchildren—Natalie, Carly, Emma, Willow, Connor, Hailey, Teagan Ann, Grayson, Lucy, and Tyson—were her light and joy. Every moment spent with them was cherished, and her love for them knew no bounds. Maureen's family was her number one priority; she always knew how to encourage and support them through life's challenges.

Maureen was a woman of many interests. She had a deep-seated love of reading, which fed her curious mind and aided in her epic story telling. She never heard a story she couldn't improve. She expressed herself through drawing and music, often filling her home with melodies that resonated with laughter, music, joy and dancing. Animals and nature brought her some of her greatest joy and peace. Maureen was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, passionately supporting her team with enthusiasm and spirit.

She was a fun-loving person with a large and sometimes twisted sense of humor. She also loved dancing, was often whistling and loved singing to her kids, imparting a unique and personal touch to their interactions. Those who were fortunate enough to know Maureen will remember her for always knowing what to say, her comforting words serving as a balm during difficult times.

Maureen is survived by her loving husband, Gary, her adoring children, and her grandchildren, as well as her sister, Jane Sandison, her beloved dog, Wilson, and kitten, Pippen as well as nieces, nephews, family and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Barbara (Bailey) Sanderson; her grandson, Blake; and her sister, Patricia Sanderson.

The vibrant life of Maureen Ayala will be honored in a Visitation on January 31, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 6:00 PM at the Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk, Illinois with Pastor Sandy Smith officiating. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy of love will continue to bloom in her family. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family to be divided among her favorite charities. For more information or to sign the online guestbook go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home

13160 W. Rt 34 ~ P.O. Box 404 

Somonauk, IL 60552

815-498-2363