Carmencita Santiago

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Carmencita Santiago, a beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend, who left this world on September 11, 2025, at the age of 56 after a courageous battle with cancer. Carmencita's journey began in Brooklyn, NY, on October 29, 1968, born to her loving parents, Javier and Valentina Santiago. Her family takes solace in the knowledge that she is now reunited with them, as well as her cherished daughter Graciela, brother Carlos, and sister Caroline, in eternal peace. Carmencita's life was a tapestry of love, resilience, and vibrant spirit. She was a graduate of Eastern District High School and furthered her education at Empire State University, where she developed not only her mind but also her character. Known for her radiant smile that could light up a room and her infectious sense of love and humor, Carmencita's presence was a gift to all who knew her. Standing at a petite 5'2", Carmencita was a powerhouse of energy and enthusiasm. She was a superfan of New York's iconic sports teams, cheering on the New York Giants, Knicks, and Yankees with unwavering loyalty. Her love for sports was only matched by her passion for cooking, especially her exquisite Puerto Rican dishes that brought warmth and comfort to family gatherings. Carmencita's dedication extended beyond her family to the broader community. As a devoted volunteer and coach for the Special Olympics, she touched countless lives, offering her time, energy, and heart to uplift and inspire others. Her impeccable sense of style was evident in her collection of high-end shades, from Prada to Gucci and Christian Dior, which she wore with undeniable flair. A top-notch hairstylist, Carmencita had a special talent for making young women feel beautiful, especially those preparing for proms and other significant events. Her hands were skilled, and her heart was generous, leaving an indelible mark on those she styled. Carmencita's legacy continues through her beloved son, Micah, who carries forward her spirit of kindness and resilience. She is also survived by her sisters, Eva (and her husband Gabriel), Natasha, and Floral, along with a host of nieces and nephews, including Stevie, Prince, Layla, Louisa, Eva, D’Arcy, Autumn, and Brittany. Her cherished granddaughters, Ariel and Lucy, were the light of her life, bringing her immeasurable joy. Special cousins Fulani and Edwin also hold her memory dear. A service to celebrate Carmencita’s life will be held on September 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Church, located at 2906 Forney Ave, Brooklyn. The family invites all who knew and loved Carmencita to join them in honoring her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, donations in Carmencita’s memory can be made to the American Cancer Society, supporting the ongoing fight against the disease she bravely battled. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Mt. Sinai, Brooklyn, for their compassionate care and support during Carmencita’s final days. Carmencita Santiago will be remembered for her indomitable spirit, her love for life, and the warmth she shared with those around her. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her spirit will remain forever in our hearts.