Lee Ann Ayers

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Lee Ann Ayers on February 26, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on December 12, 1950, in the sunlit city of Phoenix, Arizona, Lee Ann was a beacon of warmth, spirit, and unyielding determination. Her legacy is one of love, compassion, and a spirited zest for life. Lee Ann was the cherished daughter of the late H.D. and Alva Ayers. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, whose values she carried throughout her life. Her vibrant spirit is carried on by her devoted children, Amy Steig and her sons, Jeremy and Tobias Páez Steig, and Ryan Ayers, along with his wife, Erin, and their daughters, Madeleine and Lilian Ayers. Lee Ann was also a beloved sister to Leona Johnson and her husband, Rodger Johnson; Yvonne Ayers; Denise Ayers-Mondragon and her husband, Omar Mondragon; and Juana Ayers and her husband, Scott Nicholson. She leaves behind cherished memories with her nieces and nephews: Paul Bertolino, Bianca Mondragon, Diego Mondragon, Sofia Nicholson, and Fiona Shinaman. A graduate of Nogales High School in 1968, Lee Ann dedicated nearly four decades to managing the Mastick Trust in Nogales, Arizona. Her professional life was marked by integrity, dedication, and a nurturing spirit that endeared her to her colleagues and community alike. Lee Ann was an active member of ZONTA International, an organization that mirrored her commitment to empowering women and fostering community development. Her life's tapestry was woven with the threads of her passions and hobbies. An extraordinary cook and a "baking queen," Lee Ann's culinary creations delighted the Nogales community, especially during the festive holiday seasons. Her deft hands also crafted countless teddy bears, lovingly sewn and donated to children at the local infusion clinic, bringing comfort and smiles to many young faces. Lee Ann's heart was as expansive as her spirit. She fostered numerous dogs from the Santa Cruz Humane Society, providing them a haven filled with love and care—some of whom found their forever home with her. She was also the proud and caring "mother" of Sadie, her beloved 20-year-old tortoise. The essence of Lee Ann Ayers can be encapsulated in the word "FIESTY": spirited, determined, and undeniably tenacious. Her energetic and spunky nature endeared her to all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on her community and family. In her memory, the family invites donations to Zonta International, an organization close to Lee Ann's heart, at Zonta International Nogales. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Lee Ann's dedicated caregiver, the compassionate team at Hospice, her doctors, and the staff at Nogales Hospital and clinics for their unwavering support and kindness. They also appreciate the Nogales community for its shared compassion and care for one of its longtime members. Lee Ann Ayers will be remembered as a spirited woman who lived her life with passion, resilience, and an open heart. Her legacy of love and generosity continues to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed but forever cherished in our hearts.