"The Life Sketch of Aubrey Towler"

Aubrey Towler's life is a story of love, family, dedication, and community service.

Born on March 25, 1954, in Port Hueneme, California, to Andrew and Fairy Towler, the youngest of four children: Autry (Joe) Johnson, Willie Lee Johnson, and Ernest (Butch) Towler. Aubrey grew up surrounded by family, especially his cousins Kim Reese Evans and Sadie Towler, they were like siblings. Aubrey attended Ramona, Juanita and McKinna Elementary Schools, Fremont Junior High School, and Oxnard High School. Aubrey was a good student, a favorite among classmates and teachers. Aubrey excelled in track and field.  He played saxophone in the marching band, captain of the sophomore football team. He performed on the field as a player and musician. He was school sergeant-at-arms, member of boys' league and student of the month, work study program with Port Hueneme and Port Mugu Naval bases, a member of the Afro American Congress and Black Student Union. He cruised the boulevard in Oxnard and Van Nuys, in his El Camino and Chevy Nova.  Aubrey and his Ernest were both original members for the Taste of Soul, the best local house band of the 1970s and 80s and Aubrey was the saxophone player in the horn section. The band performed at many events, and clubs in the Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles County area for school activities, house parties, and celebrities. in the Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles County area

After graduating high school in 1972, Aubrey followed in his father's footsteps as a master bricklayer, contributing to numerous projects in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles counties. Notable structures include the Ventura County Government Center, Ventura County Fire Stations, and the Reagan Library. Aubrey took pride in his craftsmanship, reflecting his dedication to the trade. In 1994, he transitioned to a new career in helping others, earning a certificate in Alcohol/Drug Studies, and working with homeless veterans and people in recovery. His efforts in the Stand Down program and as a Certified Addiction Treatment Specialist earned him recognition from multiple institutions.

In 1975, Aubrey married his high school sweetheart Velda Rorex, and they were blessed with two lovely daughters, Kanika Nicole Towler (Speck) and Tamika Cheryl Towler (Mazariego). When that chapter of life ended, Aubrey's legacy is reflected in his love and pride for his daughters and four grandsons, cherishing moments spent with his family. Aubrey had a spirited nature. When asked how he was doing he would respond "it's your world, I can't call it ". He had a great smile and loved music, classic car shows, social gatherings, dominos, bowling, and good food. His favorite teams were Golden State Warriors and Kansas City Chiefs. He watched the old tv shows, Perry Mason and Gunsmoke were his favorite. He followed Politics Nation MSNBC, World news tonight. He enjoyed watching the ocean waves and surfers at Surfers Point in Ventura. Aubrey loved to dress and wear his fedoras. He enjoyed Las Vegas trips with his best buddy Luvone Boyd and trips to Chumash casino for concerts; fishing trips with coworkers, cruises with friends.

The Towler Family were members of the Bethel AME Church over 60 years. Aubrey was the primary caregiver for his mother bringing her to church when she was able to attend until she passed. Aubrey also attended services when he was able and appreciated the support of his Bethel family.  In 2010 Aubrey came to live with Stephanie Moss and Jacqueline Calhoun before she relocated.  They have known Aubrey since he was a teenager, and Jackie became his honorary God mother.  They all shared good times, celebrations, travel, and health struggles, but always supporting each other.

Aubrey passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, at the age of 70 surrounded by his loved ones and the Bethel clergy. He was preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Fairy Towler, brother Autry Joe Johnson, sister Willie Pearl Johnson, niece Robin Johnson, former spouse Velda Rorex Towler, Aunt Clara and Uncle Samuel Towler.  Left to cherish his memory are his daughters Tamika Mazariego (Korey) of Camarillo, Kanika Speck (Brett) of San Pedro, grandsons Ian and Cayden Speck, Isaiah and Lukah Mazariego; brother Ernest Towler (Donna) of Georgia; brother in law Darryel Daniels; nieces and nephews: Rochelle McMullin, Robyn Taylor, William Taylor and Justin McMullin; Emery and Arnold Johnson and Chris Baker; Crystal, Jamal, Jayce and Joule Dowdy; cousins Sadie, Eloise, Samuel III, Rachel, Arnold Towler and Fredonia Towler Fennell, Elwood and Kimberly Reese Evans; Effie Hawkins; Thelma Stafford; a host of second cousins and extended family.

Remembering Aubrey for his smooth candor, and love for life are special friends: Stephanie Moss, Luvone Boyd, Ruth Holland, Mary Jones, Ava Adams, Velma Womack, Violet Marquez, Maryetta McMahan, Minister Von Beaty, Jack Bradstreet, Ruby Manor, Donna Hickson, Eric Hickson, Lisa Truong, Sylvia Ortiz, Lisa Molloy, Eddie Markham, Michael West, David West.  We celebrate his determination, endurance, and the importance of family and friends. Aubrey will be dearly missed by all who knew him.