Al Ayari, 89

STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — Al Ayari was born in El Aroussa, Tunisia on Aug. 6, 1931 to Belgacem and Zina Ayari. 

He died peacefully at home on Feb. 15, 2021. His death ended a very long and courageous battle with Leukemia.

He was a police lieutenant in Tunisia and came to the United States on a ten-month exchange program to study American forensics.  He vowed to return to the United States and he did just that in 1961. He moved to New York City and was hired as a security guard at the United Nations.  It was at this time that he met Mickie, his cherished wife of 58 years, Over the years he moved up through the ranks while completing his Bachelor's degree and eventually retired as Assistant Chief of Security and Investigations at the UN headquarters.

In the early years of his career, while he and Mickie were raising their two children, Dalinda and Nabeal, he went to college at night while eagerly accepting overtime hours at work so he could provide for his family. Buying their first house in Staten Island was an accomplishment he was so proud of. Through the years while he was attending college, he never failed to make sure he took his family on the most memorable vacations. It wasn't unusual for him to be studying or writing term papers during these vacations, but he was determined to keep his family happy. That was what he lived for.

He was a world traveler; he spoke five languages fluently and as part of his career with the UN he was able to go to places such as Indonesia, Japan, South America and Switzerland.  

For pleasure, he and his wife, Mickie visited Europe on multiple occasions and their beloved Quebec, which they loved so dearly.  He was so pleased that his children and grandchild inherited his love of travel. 

In addition to traveling, Al was 3-timea NYC Marathon runner who completed each race. He was also an avid tennis player.

He leaves behind the family he cherished so; His son, Nabeal, his daughter Dalinda and her husband, Jake, and adored granddaughter, Olivia. He is also survived by his dear soulmate Mickie, who he leaves almost 60 years of loving memories.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Al's Oncologists, Dr. Harvey Zimbler and Dr. Sean Mullaly, who recognized his spirit and his amazing will to live and enjoy life for an extra 15 years.  Much love and gratitude to all the wonderful staff at Hillcrest Hospital who brought support, friendship and loving care.

The funeral will be private due to the Covid Pandemic.

If you were ever fortunate enough to know this dear man, you may wish to send stories, remembrances or condolences to www.finnertyandstevens.com