Rebekah Renee Santiago

Rebekah Renee Santiago (née Clark), age 54, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri. Born on February 28, 1971, in Aurora, Nebraska, she was the beloved daughter of Charles Alan Clark and the late Sharolyn Kay (Barstadt) Clark.
Rebekah's life was marked by brilliance, creativity, and a deep love for others. She graduated from Bellevue East High School in Bellevue, Nebraska, and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in mathematics with honors in only three years from Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Missouri. It was during her college years that she met the love of her life, Dr. Rafael Santiago, in a math class-a serendipitous beginning to a lifelong love story. They were married on June 14, 1992, and shared over three decades of joy-filled companionship.
A woman of exceptional intellect and talent, Rebekah was widely regarded as a genius by those who knew her. Early in her career, she contributed to the development of medical software and traveled extensively across the United States to teach others how to use it-sharing not only her knowledge but also her infectious enthusiasm and warmth.
Later in life, Rebekah found a new creative outlet through glass fusion art. She founded Creative Escape Glass to not only to create stunning works of art but also taught others how to explore their own creativity through this medium. Her passion for teaching and connecting with people shone brightly in every class she led.
Rebekah had an adventurous spirit and an insatiable curiosity about the world. Alongside Rafael, she traveled to more than 40 countries. The beach held a special place in her heart-it was her sanctuary and source of peace. Whether walking along ocean shores or enjoying time at Table Rock Lake, Rebekah found joy in nature's beauty and serenity.
Her faith was an important part of her life; she attended St. Agnes Catholic Church in Springfield, Missouri. Rebekah was a donor, helping to save the lives of others.
Rebekah is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 33 years, Dr. Rafael Santiago; her father, Charles Clark; and her sister, Heidi Ehrhard.
Those who knew Rebekah will remember her as someone who radiated happiness and joy wherever she went. She loved people deeply and embraced life with open arms-always smiling, always giving.
May her memory bring comfort to all who were touched by her light.
A visitation will be held on November 16, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, 2001 West Walnut Lawn Street, Springfield, Missouri. A Celebration of Life service will follow with Pastor Phillip Wright officiating.
As per her wishes and love of the ocean, she will be laid to rest in the ocean with the creation of a coral reef with her remains.
Care and arrangements have been entrusted to Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, Ltd. – DeGraffenreid-Wood Crematory, Springfield, Missouri.