Santiago Ayala Gonzales, age 83, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, in McKinney, Texas. Lovingly known as Jimmy or James, he built an amazing life, he leaves behind a legacy of laughter, deep family devotion, and countless unforgettable stories.
Born in Kerr County, Texas, on October 14, 1942, to Ruben and Margarita Gonzales. He spent his life growing up between Texas and Montana with his parents and siblings, Beatrice, Frank, Rachel, Erlinda, Rufina, Florinda, and Ruben Jr.
As a young man, he built his family becoming a father to Robert “Bobby”, Joe Angel “Joey”, Lesvia, James, Ruben, Morris, Gina, Jason, and Boaz. His children loved their father deeply, and they built an amazing legacy that included 38 Grandchildren and 58 Great Grandchildren.
Jimmy possessed a vibrant spirit that took him on many of life’s great adventures and that led to him meeting Dolly Chapman in Louisiana. They spent 29 years together and he helped raise Chasity “CC”, Tracy, Brittany, Karen Ashley, Misty, and Ray. Jimmy is now reunited with his beloved Dolly.
Jimmy learned many Trades in his life, that included being a Carpenter, Maintenance man, Handyman and Farm Worker. His older grandchildren will tell you, their favorite job he had was being a Sheep Shearer. They got to take turns sitting on the sheep’s heads while he sheared the sheep, a job that was extremely important to ensure the coat was removed.
Jimmy was a storyteller, sometimes it was a classic repeat of his many adventures or recapping the news. He possessed a quick wit that guaranteed a smile or a laugh to anyone in his presence, as he loved telling jokes. He had a deep appreciation for the simple, beautiful things in life, fishing and being outdoors. Although a Cowboy fan, he became a dedicated fan of the New Orleans Saints. Nothing made him happier than a good slice of pecan pie, and well honestly good food. He loved to eat and had a major sweet tooth.
Above all else, Jimmy loved his family. He took immense pride in his children and wore the title of "Grandpa” and “Grandpa, Grandpa" like a badge of honor. He was a great Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle, Cousin and Friend.
Jimmy is survived in death by is children Robert “Bobby”, Joe Angel “Joey”, Lesvia, James, Ruben, Morris, and Gina. His sisters, Flora, Ruthie, Linda, and Diana. His many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Jimmy is preceded in death by his partner, Dolly; sons, Jason, Boaz, and James; Bonus Family Misty and Ray; Great grandchildren Emma and Salazar; his siblings Beatrice, Frank, Rachel, and Ruben Jr.
To say he will be greatly missed would be an understatement.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm, Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service will also be live streamed at TJMfuneral.com on Jimmy’s obituary page by clicking on the following link: https://celebrationoflife.tv/. After the service, the recorded live stream will be available for viewing at the same link location.