Ofelia Santillanez

Ofelia "Opie" Santillanez was born on June 5th 1958, in Lansing, Michigan and was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday February 23rd, 2025. She lived a life filled with love, laughter and an unwavering faith.
Opie, as she was affectionately known, gave her heart to the Lord as a young girl and dedicated her life to sharing his love with others. She attended Southern Arizona Bible School in Hereford, Arizona, where her heart for God and passion to serve were further ignited. Because of her influence, teachings and guidance- many lives were transformed. Ofelia's laughter was a melody that harmonized perfectly with her great sense of humor, and it will echo in the memories of her loved ones forever. Her gift to lead and teach, lead her to a fulfilling career with Head Start, where she poured her love and dedication into the lives of countless children.
Ofelia was a devoted wife to her husband, Manuel Santillanez for 19 years. A supportive mother of 3 sons: Aaron (Shelly) Valdez, Joshua (Angelica) Valdez and Benjamin Valdez, and the proud grandmother of Gabriel Valdez. She is also survived by her father, Daniel Parras and brother, Armando Parras. Ofelia is now reunited in Heaven with her mother and brother, Petra and Alexander Parras.
The love Opie held for her family was mirrored in the affection she shared with her cousins, who were more like siblings, having grown up together in the warm embrace of kinship. They shared countless meals, prayers, and moments of joy, always there for one another in times of need and celebration.
Though we mourn her departure from this Earth, we rejoice in the knowledge that Ofelia has been welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior. She is whole, restored and will forever sing His praises. We bid her a fond farewell, knowing that her legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of all those she has touched. Until we meet again, dear Opie, rest in heavenly peace.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 27th from 4 PM - 7 PM at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Home, 520 E. Mt Hope Ave, Lansing, MI 48910.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, Feb 28th at 11 AM at Maranatha Bilingual Church, 927 E. North St, Lansing, MI 48906.