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Maria Santillan Obituary
SAN JUAN - The Lord our Savior finally called my name on Saturday August 23, 2008. What a joyful day for me. Living on this Earth for 84 years was an enormous gift from God. I was born on December 15, 1923 in San Juan, Texas to my parents Jose and Maria C. Leal, with whom I am now reunited along with my beloved husband, Gilberto Santillan Sr. It is with great pleasure that I also get to see my three brothers gone before me, Guadalupe Martinez, Jesus Leal and Romulo Leal. Someday I will reunite with the rest of my siblings, Jose C. Leal, Agapito "Pete" Leal, Andrea Cantu, Paula Tanguma, and Florinda Herrera all from the Dallas, Texas area.
I wish to express a very special and heart felt thank you to Dr. Jose Rodriguez and Staff at PEN in Mission for their genuine loving care during my illness. The Nurses and Staff at Rio Grande Regional Hospital 2- West in McAllen are also to be commended. But most especially, thank you to Knapp Medical Center Hospice Care Services for all the loving gentle care and support you gave me and my family.
With the time my Lord gave me, I was blessed with 11 wonderful children. My children were always my greatest joy and my biggest accomplishment. My seven daughters are, Esperanza (Robert O.) Stockwell from Mission, Maria Elena (Severo Jr.) McDonald from Richardson, Texas, Rosario (Armando) Mancha from Alamo, Irma (Robert) Van Meter, Graciela (Gustavo) Garcia, Criselda Ortega and Maricela Santillan all from San Juan. My four sons are, Fernando (Maria Elena) Santillan, Jose Luis (Raquel) Santillan, Gilberto (Yolanda) Santillan Jr. all from San Juan and Francisco (Criselda) Santillan from Alamo. I am very proud to say that I was able to enjoy 34 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. I will miss them all very much, especially at Christmas time, my favorite holiday. Making tamales and menudo for my family at our yearly party gave me an immense pleasure. Thank you for being such wonderful children. I love you all with all my heart.
My children have made arrangements for me at Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan. Viewing will be from 5 to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary, Today, August 24, 2008. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, August 25, 2008, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish in San Juan. Entombment will follow at Palm Valley Memorial Gardens in Pharr. Pallbearers will be my grandsons, Frank Santillan, Daniel Santillan, Bryan Santillan, Rick Ortega, Aaron Mancha, Marco Garcia and Nathan McDonald. If at all possible, I request that no one wear solid black for my services but instead wear white or colorful clothes. Remember, meeting my savior is a joyful celebration. Peace to all and God Bless You!
Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan.
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Memories and Condolences
for Maria Santillan
Gracie Garcia
August 19, 2024
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't talk with you especially during my prayers. It's hard to believe that it's been 16 years already. Miss you so much especially when I need your wisdom/advice. Until we meet again my beautiful mom, I will continue to miss you. Love you Mom!
Sandra Garza
August 18, 2024
I learned from you how to put God and family first....before my job and everything else. I thank you for the words of wisdom as I feel I am a better mother to my 4 children. Miss you dearly....
Rolando Martinez
August 12, 2024
Miss you Wela. Coming up on 16 years since you've been gone.
Rolly
Graciela Garcia
August 21, 2023
Mom, it's unbelievable that it's been 15 years since you've gone to live with Jesus. Luis and Jessica have now been reunited with you. Someday, the rest of us will too. How I miss you! I wish I could have you for one more day. I await the day that Jesus calls me home too. I love now and forever more.
Lisa Martinez
August 22, 2022
My dear Wela Chana, it's been 14 years since your departure. Also, it's been 6 months since Uncle Luis left us too. We've been heartbroken. We all love and miss you dearly. RIP
Graciela Garcia
August 18, 2021
Mom, I still miss you as much as I did when you first left us to live in heaven. Thank you for coming into my dreams often. I hope that when my time comes you will be waiting for me with open arms. I love you now and forever more. ~ Gracie
Gracie Garcia
August 19, 2020
Mom, it's been 12 years now since you've been gone. How I still miss you dearly!! I carry you in my heart always! Love you!
Esperanza Stockwell
August 18, 2020
That I miss my mother so very much. Someday I will be reunited with her in the ever after. I loved her so very much.❤
Because of you, we live and love!
August 28, 2014
Mom, everyday I think of you. I miss you more than I ever realized I would. You were my best friend. Six years seems like forever since I've been able to hug or kiss you but I know you watch over us always. We, your family, love you and always hold you in our hearts. Your daughter, Gracie
August 23, 2014
Mama, it's been six years since you left us. I know you're still with us spiritually protecting and guiding us. Not a single day goes by that I do not think of you. Mom I miss you and I hope that when I take my last breath in this world, you will come for me and welcome me into my new life. With lots of love, your son, Pancho
August 19, 2013
Mom, it seems like just yesterday when God decided it was time to stop suffering and enjoy living in His Kingdom, yet it seems so long ago at the same time. August 22, 2008 will never be forgotten. I know you're another angel watching out for us now as you have been since you left. I still miss you so much! You were my best friend and confidant. I love you immensely and I hope I've made you proud. Major changes in my life are taking place as I write this. Please help and guide me.
Your loving daughter, Gracie
Gracie Garcia
August 24, 2012
Mom, it's been four years since you went to live in God's Kingdom. I now have another granddaughter, Alaina Grace Torres. Kara is now 4 years old. I wish you had met Allie also. May you always be joyful and keep watch over all of us. I love you and miss you and will never forget you. You're in my heart always and forever! Your loving daughter, Gracie.
Amanda Montes
August 23, 2010
Grandma, today is the 2nd anniversary of your passing and i miss u as much as I did when you first left us. Just wanted to let you know that I love you so much. I couldnt sleep much last night thinking about you and how I wish you were here to see my babies grow up. Today was Ashlyns first day of Kinder garden and she was so excited. She often thinks of you and talks about how you are with Jesus up in a castle in Heaven. Even though you are not here with us in body you are here in our hearts. Wonderful memories of you fill our hearts and minds and those are the memories that help us cope with your loss. I know you also wouldnt forget that today is my birthday. I know if you were here you would give me 27 kisses for my birthday. Cant wait to see you in my dreams again. Love you grandma. I know you are watching down from Heaven. Please continue to watch over us all.
Lisa Martinez
August 23, 2010
My dearest grandma, I miss and love you. Today is your 2nd anniversary and much has occurred since your passing, such as the birth of Grace Madison, She is 1 yr. old, pretty and quite a character, my precious Victoria is turning 2 yrs. old and enjoys being a big sister, and mom is adjusting as a widower. At this time, Julio's mom is not doing well and it brings me back memories when you were ill. Sadness lurks upon us and it's an ugly feeling. I always think of you and I wish you were here to bring comfort and warmth so it can help me cope. I hope you are watching over ALL of us cause it would make us feel better...love you.
Mari Santillan
August 16, 2010
Mom just want to say that i love u and still miss u lots. I dont often have dreams of u but when i do, its always about u being sick and leaving me/us again to feel that awful painful feeling we first got when u first left. I knw u r at a better place not in pain or suffering but we still mss u alot. as your second anniv. comes around it will bring memories once again of u not being here and us missing u at christmas and daily. well i love u mom and one day we will be together once again. love my kids/grndkids and myself.
Monica Hamilton
August 16, 2010
oh my Wela Chana was the best! She was from the old days and with many children and grandchildren living a modern life, she followed without judgement but rather well wishes. It takes an enormous heart and fear of god to be unbiased and respectful of other peoples life choices at all times. She set the bar high! She said to me in the Spring of 96...I should attend Val's wedding because i miss all other gatherings and i did. I respected her wishes and contacted a friend to attend with me and a year later that friend became my husband. How profound to know by choosing her battles and asking me to specifically to attend that wedding...it changed my life. I am so happy to have had her in my life. I am so thankful to Jehovah for her long years and tremendous example of a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
Gracie Garcia
August 15, 2010
Dear Mom, Your 2nd anniversary is upon us. I can't believe it's been 2 years since you left. Even though it's been 2 yrs. I miss you just the same. A day doesn't go by that I don't think about you. Sometimes I think I can go to your house and that I'll find you there cooking in the kitchen as you always did. And like I mentioned to you a year ago, you taught us a valuable lesson...love is the greatest gift of all. And I'm sure that you are very happy with what you see in us. We still meet for breakfast every week, and I hope that you are there with us too. The family reunion is coming up soon. I hope that we can represent you in a way that will make you proud. I believe that you will be there too with Mama Maria, Papa Jose, my Tios and Tia Flora. I love you Mom, and I miss you soooo much still. Please continue to visit me in my dreams. I will never forget you "mammita"! Until we meet again, I remain your loving daughter forever, Gracie.
Gracie Garcia
August 23, 2009
Dear Mom, last night we celebrated your 1st year anniversary of your life with our Lord Jesus Christ. How wonderful your new place in heaven must be! I love you miss you soooo much! It seems like you left so long ago, yet it's only been one year. And you were right Mom, all we have now is each other. You sure taught us a valuable lesson. Love is the greatest gift of all. And Mom, last night showed us that we all love each other very much. Thank you for that gift Mom. Even in dying you were teaching us. I know that you were here with us celebrating with us. Tia Paula, Teddy, Carlos, and Dalia made the trip from Dallas to celebrate with us too. Mom, I'm not afraid to die anymore because I know that you will be waiting for me. Please check in on us from time to time and keep visiting me in my dreams. Help me to be a good Mom, wife, and grandma too. I love you and we'll see you again when God calls me home too.
Connie Ann Martinez
August 23, 2009
We miss you very much. Last night's gathering was wonderful. With lots of love and kisses from your great granddaughter Connie Ann Martinez, and great-great granddaughters, Victoria Ann (11 months old) and Grace Madison Tucker (1 month old).
Amanda Montes
August 22, 2009
Hi Grandma, a year ago today you left to be the Lord. I miss you so much. Ashlyn talks about you all the time. She doesn't want anyone to call her Chunkybutt because that was what you called her. She says "Dont call me Chunkybutt, only my Meca Chana can call me that." So many times she asks if she can go on a plane and fly to Heaven to go see you, and it just breaks my heart. Tomorrow is my birthday, and im going to miss your phone call. You never forgot my birthday. I dont know how you did it..to remember everyone's birthday. That just shows how special and wonderful you were. So much is happening this week. The anniversary of your passing, my birthday, Chunkybutt starts Pre-K, and "Jooker" starts daycare. I wish you were here to see how excited Ashlyn is about school and how handsome Jr is growing up to be. But i'm sure you're watching them from Heaven. I love you grandma. I can't wait to see you again. Until that day, I will continue to keep you alive through all the wonderful memories you left us. I love you.
Francisco Santillan
August 21, 2009
Hi Mom,
Miss you a lot. It's already been a year since you left. All we have left are memories of you. It seems that every where we turn or anything we do reminds us of you in some way or another. Talking about the memories eases the pain. The pain doesn't go away. We just get used to it.
And thanks for having so many kids. We have each other to look after and help us through tough times. I don't know como la hizo la Gorda when mi suegra passed away. Mom, I also pray for you every night like I told you. Remember that day when you asked me if I prayed for you?
Mom, me despido pero I know one day we will all be together again.
Love you,
Pancho.
Thelma Ramos
August 19, 2009
Oh mom, how much I miss you very very much. Thank you for all the great memories and for always being there for me. You were the BEST!!
I've had several dreams about you, how real it feels. Well so much has changed in my life, I so wish you were here to talk too. The girls are all grown and have moved and how proud I am of them. Nathan is doing wonderful and I love him being close to me. I enjoy every moment I get to see him. You too, would be very proud of the man he has become. Michael has 2 years to go and doing great. Next step will be off to college, then we will definately be empty nesters. I think of you constantly and how I wish I could just call you and talk to you. Thanks for being a BIG BLESSING to all of us but especially to me and my family. Lots of Love Hugs and Kisses, Thelma (aka mema, to you)
Granddaughter, Lisa Martinez
August 19, 2009
Hi Grandma, I miss you dearly. Since your passing, I became a grandmother and my stepfather, Bob passed away in June. My new title as a grandmother has been wonderful and I love it. Connie Ann has blessed us with two beautiful girls, Victoria Ann and a month ago, she gave birth to Grace Madison. Victoria enjoys being a big sister. I promised to you that I would watch over my mother and I have kept it. Since Bob's passing, there has been another void in our lives and it's been difficult for us. I have been there for mom and she is a strong woman. You would be proud of her, I am. She has been surrounded by a loving support system, my aunts and uncles. I truly appreciate them for keeping in touch with mom and visiting when they have opportunities. This coming saturday will be your 1st anniversary. Gracie has done a fine job of organizing this special event and the entire family is looking forward to it. I am sure we will feel your presence. Lots of hugs and kisses from all of us. Love you!
Number 1 grandma for the Garcia clan.
July 14, 2009
Marco & Mom at his high school graduation dance in May 2007.
July 14, 2009
Mom congratulating D'Ann upon her graduation from UTPA in May 2004.
July 14, 2009
So glad Mom had her pic taken at this young age of about 16. Mom always did know how to apply lipstick...perfectly.
July 6, 2009
At about 36 years old, Mom already had 9 children. And look how beautiful she still is!
July 6, 2009
Here she is "en las piscas" de algodon.
July 6, 2009
Mom with Rolando and Linda.
July 6, 2009
Mom with Irma, Veronica, & Karina at Irma's. This is a 4 generation picture.
July 6, 2009
Robert & Irma with Mom at Irma's home in San Juan.
July 6, 2009
Esperanza Stockwell
July 6, 2009
I miss you Mom, more than you'll ever know. I love and want you here with me. I need your shoulder to cry on and have comfort me in this my more difficult moments. I need your Blessing and your love. Forgive for aall the sad moments I cause. As you already know Bob is up in Heaven with. Say hello to him and tell him how much I miss him like I miss you. Tell him how much I love you and him.
May you both have peace, tranquility, and love from all of us here below. I'LL BE THERE SOMEDAY AND WE'LL ALL HAVE LOTS OF FUN TOGETHER. Your daughter who loves you,
Pele/Hope Santillan Stockwell
My last Christmas with Mom (2007). I love you and miss you so much Mom! You will forever be in my heart! Gracie
June 30, 2009
Mari with Mom in Oct. 2007...United with love in Christ.
June 30, 2009
This was Mom's favorite picture of herself. Isn't she absolutely beautiful? She was probably in her early 40's.
June 30, 2009
Nena and Mom at Christmastime 2007. "Chaparras" :)
June 30, 2009
Pele and Mom at Christmastime 2005. Beautiful!
June 30, 2009
Christmas 2007....Mom posing silly in her new pajamas that Vanessa gave her from Victoria's Secret. Mom loved these alot. They kept her warm.
June 30, 2009
Mom and Jr. in Oct. 2007....Smile!
June 30, 2009
Mom with Melinda at Illuminations Grand Opening party in Nov. 2006
June 30, 2009
Mari Santillan
June 22, 2009
Hi Mom, it is now 10mths from the day you passed away and we still miss you lots. I try to stop by and see you on a daily basis since i work by where you were layed to rest. I want you to know that my kids and I still miss you alot. My grandaughter that you got to see only one time for about 1 week (Valaney) turns 2 yrs on the day we buried you 08/25. She talks to your pictures in the living room and trys to feed you everything she is eating. We have caught her several times baby talking to herself with your pictures. I have to keep the windex close by cause her finger prints and food always on your pics. I have had a couple of people tell me she looks like you. We love you mom and we miss you. One day we will see you again in Heaven. Love Mari and the gang.
Monica Hamilton
June 22, 2009
Thanks for all the memories in your photos....they are precious and I absolutely love to be reminded of all the little things that were special about Wela Chana.....like the way her face looked after she powdered her face....she modeled neatness, dignity and loveliness.
Can you tell which one Mom is???
June 19, 2009
Mom and Dad on their 25th wedding anniversary...June 14, 1967
June 19, 2009
Mom and Tio Bebe in Dec. 2007
June 19, 2009
Mom "hechandole la bendicion" a Tio Bebe in Oct. 2007
June 19, 2009
Mom with Mama Maria, Tio Romulo, Tio Chuy, Tio Pito, Tio Bebe, Tio Lupe, Tia Andrea, Tia Flora, n Tia Paula in the mid 1960's
June 19, 2009
Nando and Mom in April 2008
June 19, 2009
Beautiful Ladies...Mom with Tia Andrea in Nov. 2007
June 19, 2009
Dancing the night away...Mom's 84th birthday dance with baby brother Tio Pito in Dec. 2007
June 19, 2009
Sisterly Love...Mom & Tia Flora in Oct. 2007
June 19, 2009
Hugs n Kisses...Mom & Tia Paula in Oct. 2007
June 19, 2009
Written by: Rick Ortega
June 12, 2009
Love is inherited, passed on to son, to daughter, grandchild and lover, all because of one.
Love is undying, forever and strong. Our Queen of Hearts, whose heart know all, but wrong.
Love is our mother, great, grand or gone.
We Love and Miss you Mom/Wela.
Mom receiving gifts from Santa at Christmas Party 2007
June 9, 2009
Mom celebrating with Rick at his graduation from UTPA with Jaime & Edith on May 10, 2007
June 9, 2009
Mom & Steve before leaving to Basic Training with the Airforce on May 19, 2008
June 8, 2009
May 19, 2008
June 8, 2009
Cris Ortega
June 8, 2009
Hi Mom,
It's been 9 mos. since your great-granddaughter, Emily Jadyn, was born. She was born the day before you began your new life with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I know deep in my heart that you were aware of her birth when I told you about her. Jaime and Edith are now expecting a son, Jacob Ethan, on Oct. 10, 2009 or before. Rick is getting married to Esmeralda tenatively on Oct. 10, 2009. The Lord blessed him with the girl of his dreams and is very happy and Steve is doing good in the Airforce. He will be getting deployed to Qatar, Saudi Arabia sometime in July '09. I know you are with him and praying for him and all of us too. I'm so proud of my sons just like you were of all your children. Mom, I still read God's word to you like I use to when you were still with us and at times I can feel your presences. I love you and miss you tremendously and one day we will be together again.
Elizabeth Leal-Chavez
June 3, 2009
Tia Chana:
On behalf of the Jesus Leal Family we pray for you on your journey to meet the Lord our Savior and soon be with our Loving Father (Chuy) as we all hope to be one day.
Ramon Martinez
June 2, 2009
June 2, 2009
Tia Chana:
We truly miss your wonderful stories of the familia growing up. We had some wonderful times together and will miss you in the reunions but you will ALWAYS be in our hearts and thoughts. Un fuerte abrazo y besitos. Love Ramon y Thelma Martinez and familia. PS Tia, please let my Dad know that I am FINALLY an Abuelito!!!!
May 31, 2009
Tia Chana: David and I truly miss you, but know that you are in the best place of all. We will all be there with you some day. I also know that you and daddy are together, because you are keeping him straight, big job, but if anyone can handle it it is you. Thank you for being in and touching our lives with your special touch. God always had a special place for you. Love you, David and Yolanda
May 31, 2009
I miss your infectious laughter the most and know that one day we will be together again. Take care of my Daddy and see you soon. We miss you so much! Hugs Dalia & Kenny
Sandra C. Garza
May 30, 2009
Hi Grandma,
Today is my birthday and I miss your phone call. I am having to work on my birthday and celebrate with people who I really don't know. It has been difficult telling my kids you are not with us anymore but they understand. Several days have gone by when the kids will ask about you. I tell them you are with God. When DD and Jeremiah did their 1st Communion this year, at church DD did say she knew you were there with us. Maybe you were there and she saw you. Hopefully I will be let go early today to celebrate with my family.
Pancho & Mom on Mother's Day, 2008.
May 29, 2009
Mom enjoying a beer with Challo (just pretending)
April 8, 2009
Bryan taking a nap with Mom in late Feb. '08
April 8, 2009
Tia Flora with Mom...Mom holding Kara in July '08
April 8, 2009
Mom with Gracie, Marco, Melinda, D'Ann & Kara
April 8, 2009
Mom at Luis' with Tia Paula, Tia Andrea, & Tio Pito in April '08
April 8, 2009
Mom enjoying her steak after her surgery...mmm
April 8, 2009
Mom with Melinda at the zoo in May 2008
April 8, 2009
Las 3 Chelas with Mom in April 2008
April 8, 2009
Thelma Ramos
November 25, 2008
Hey Mom I know its been 3 mos since you left us and I surely miss you... Today is my Birthday (the big 40) and I miss your phone call. You never once forgot.. The funny thing is that Chela text me 1st thing this morning wishing me a happy birthday. I was very surprised and happy she remembered. She never remembers..this evening I was sitting here thinking about how much I missed your call and I decided to text her telling her "how much I missed my mommy's call." and she replied. " Maybe that's why I remembered, she reminded me and that you would want me to enjoy it! Know thinking about it, it was you and then I found this guest book which I never check this email. what a coincidence.....
There is not a day I dont think about you. You are always on my mind. You were my rock and you were always there for me and I miss you and Love you bunches. God Be with you, Love Thelma
Mari Santillan
November 14, 2008
Hi Mom, It has been almost 3mths since you left to be w/our Lord & Saviour and I am barely signing the guest book. Mom, I just want you to know that it was a joy and my pleasure to have moved back to the Valley to take care of you. I know if it were for you, you would have NEVER told us you were sick much less that you had cancer, so we would not worry. But, this is something you could have never kept from us, we knew you to well. Anyway mom I still miss you very much, I still have my moments when i am alone and i cry and wish it was all just a bad dream. I now work in Edinburg by Sugar Rd. so i have the pleasure of stopping by daily at the place your body now rests in peace.I know you are with JESUS watching over us and taking care of all of us, and for that thank you mom. I love you and will forever miss you especially now that the Holidays are upon us. Please be waiting for me and my kids/grandkids when it is our turn to also get to see the streets of GOLD w/you and JESUS. So long and again We miss you and love you lots. Mari and Kids
Gracie Garcia
September 13, 2008
Mom, it took me a while to view these pages in the guest book. I couldn't bring myself to do so. Sorry. Words can't express how much I miss you; from spending almost everyday with you to nothing is so hard. But I am so relieved that you are no longer suffering. How you died has taught us all a very important lesson. Life is too short for anything other than loving each other always...no matter what. I love you sooooo much and will always do as you asked. I know that you are now my guardian angel and have you close by. Now you are helping us more than ever before. Wait for me when it's my turn to go home. Watch over us always Mom. You are forever in my heart.
Frank (Cuatero) and Cris Santillan
September 1, 2008
To mom who just left us to be with the Lord. We are happy you will no longer suffer pain. We are going to miss you dearly. But you will always be in our hearts. We know you will be watching us from above.Thank you for always being there for us. You taught us how to have faith in god, ourselves and our family. We love you and may you rest in peace'
Lisette (Torres) Juarez
August 30, 2008
Mr. & Mrs. Jose Luis Santillan, Dina, Jenny, and Ellie:
Just heard about your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathy. Dina, your grandmother was such a strong lady and I know that you loved her very much and that you always will! You were an awesome grandaughter to her and you're so lucky to have a gardian angel watching over you and your family. You're all in my thoughts and prayers. I Love You All!
Gabriela Arvizu
August 29, 2008
To the family of Maria Santillan: My deepest sentiments. I know that the pain of losing a family member is indescribable. Yet, we have the hope of the resurrection and being able to see our loved ones when Jehovah allows them to come back to us, and we will be there to receive them. We will keep you in our prayers.
Lisa Martinez (Eldest Granddaughter)
August 27, 2008
Grandma, your courageous battle in times of adversity has made a tremendous impact on my life that I will cherish forever. I miss your smile, cooking, words of wisdom, warmth, and blessings. I will do my best to take care of my mother and family. There are no words to express how much I appreciate all the medical providers & personnel; and family & friends for making you as comfortable as possible during the time of need. Therefore, I will always be grateful to all. My beautiful and gorgeous grandma, I love you and miss you deeply. Rest in peace.
Frankie
August 26, 2008
Gramma,
In my youth, it was an honor to have lived with such a strong and faithful grandmother. It was also an honor to have served as your "Body Guard", however brief it may have been. Now I know it is you watching me from above. I will always Love you and never forget you.
Agapito Leal
August 26, 2008
Chanita, my beautiful sister. I will miss your phone calls and the fun we had chatting away.. all those times we got together to play Bingo, and all the slot machines we visited in Vegas and Shreveport... oh yeah, and Olkahoma... What great times we had, sis. Gee, I don't recall you winning anything at the slots, but you sure did win big at Bingo. I will think of you every time I hit the slot's "play" button and every time I yell out "BINGO". Loveya 4ever, sis... Enjoy your stay with God.
Gilberto and Yolanda Santillan
August 26, 2008
To Mom whom we miss dearly. Thank you for all your love, kisses, hugs and most of all your teaching us Faith in God and family. We are relieved that you are no longer in pain and joyful that you are now celebrating with all your loved ones that were waiting for you. We know that you will continue to send us your blessings from above.
Melissa (Matthew & Savanna Garcia) Rodriguez
August 26, 2008
Gracie, Gus and family...my thoughts and prayers are with you. We miss and love you all.
Rolando Martinez
August 25, 2008
Our wela was a beautiful example of love. Always with warmth, she welcomed our visits. Always saying goodbye with "Que Dios los bendiga". We will miss our wela but take great comfort knowing she is no longer suffering. Rolando & Family
Maria Lara
August 25, 2008
Frank, Gilbert, and Yolanda I,m sorry for your lost. I know the pain you are feeling and it is true only time can help. Mary Reyes
Pablo & Irene (Vasquez) Rivera
August 25, 2008
Gracie & Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of grief.
Ofelia Ortiz
August 25, 2008
May God bring you comfort in knowing your mom has stopped suffering. She has joined the rest of the angels in heaven. May God bless all of you
Amanda Montes
August 25, 2008
Grandma, you were a strong beautiful woman; full of life, love, and most importantly Faith. It was the love for your family and your faith in God that kept you with us for so long. But now you are gone, to suffer no more, and live an eternal life with our Lord. Thank you for all the wonderful memories you’ve shared with us; for all the Christmas parties that we all love. And most importantly, thank you for being who you are, the heart and foundation of our family. Even though we can no longer see you; you will live in our hearts forever. Till we meet again; I love you and will miss you dearly.
? Mandy
Judith Rivera Brooks
August 25, 2008
We are spiritual family of Monica Martinez, Rolando Martinez, and Irma Martinez. Through them we've know of Chanita Santillan and actually go to know her better. I was only a little girl back in 83 when I first went with my mom to buy tortillas and barbacoa at Santillan's. it wouldn't be till years later that I woudl get know more of the friendly older lady who sold me toritillas. I am sad for her family that has to endure this pain and I will keep you all in my prayers. May Jehovah God help you through this trial and pain. 1 Peter 5:7. Judy and Jorge Brooks
Monica Martinez Hamilton
August 25, 2008
Thank you to all who attended the services. We appreciate your kind words and gifts of flowers, plants, etc. She is no longer suffering. I can sleep better at night because her pain has ended. I am so thankful to Jehovah God for allowing me enough time to know her, love her and be with her. Those memories of her I hold dear in my heart and mind. One of the things I admire so much about her is her commitment to the care of her family. She worked hard, very hard to maintain a suitable home for all her children as they were coming up. She took very good care of everyone and herself. For that reason and many more we will sorely miss her. What a lady!
Mary Ann Bravo-Brown
August 24, 2008
To Gracie & Family,
Having lost my Dad on August 15th I know how you feel. Please accept my deepest sympathy. May God bless you and I will keep you in my prayers.
Molly Gonzalez Gutierrez
August 24, 2008
To my Dear Friend Esmer,
I just want you to know I am thinking of you and your family. I know how much you loved your GRANDMOTHER but I also know how much she loved you. To your mom and her family I send my deepest sympathy. Your Grandmother was a lovely women and all of you were blessed to have her all these years there are many of us who did not have that chance. She is with our lord now and I will keep her in my prayers. God Bless you and your Family.
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Sanchez
August 24, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Fernando Santillan
August 24, 2008
Mom, we will miss you dearly, but knowing that you are no longer in pain and not suffering makes us happy. Save us a spot in Heaven Mom. We love you dearly.
Your son
Fernando ,daughter Elena and grandkids Valerie and Laura
Erika Navarro
August 24, 2008
We sincerely express our condolences.
Mr. and Mrs. Jose Navarro & Family
Gracie Cabrera Elizondo
August 24, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
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