From left -- Maria Leonzo (daughter), Lady Emigdia (niece), Maria Vicenta Ayala (birthday girl), Maria Elvira Rodriguez (daughter). Photo by Walidah Willoughby
Beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Maria Vicenta Ayala Amaya of Springfield celebrated 100 years of living. Born on July 24, 1916 in El Salvador, she made the journey to North America more than 35 years ago with her eight children. Maria has proven to be a strong woman full of wisdom and a heart of gold. She is a faithful believer in God, and always taught those around her about her beliefs. She dedicated her life to raising her children and grandchildren. She taught her family to be kind, thankful, humble, selfless and to love one another. She enjoys singing, dancing, but mostly, praying the rosary with her close ones. She has lived in Springfield for more than 30 years.