Celia Margarita Santiago-Robles

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Celia Margarita Santiago-Robles, who journeyed peacefully into eternal rest on May 24, 2026, at the age of 85. Celia was born on July 30, 1940, in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, to her loving parents, Agueda Vazquez and Julio Santiago, who preceded her in death alongside her cherished husband of over 40 years, Nelson Robles-Vazquez, and her brother, Manuel Vazquez. Celia's life was a tapestry of love, devotion, and vibrant experiences. As a florist by trade, she possessed a unique ability to bring beauty and joy into the lives of others through her delicate arrangements and her nurturing spirit. Her journey through life was marked by her adventurous spirit, traveling extensively with her military family and living in diverse corners of the world, each place adding a new chapter to her rich and storied life. Her greatest pride and joy were her family, with whom she shared countless memories and an unbreakable bond. Celia leaves behind her beloved children, Delia Robles-Lanter and husband Douglas, Nelson Robles, Jr. and wife Viki, and Marl Robles and wife Michelle. Her legacy continues through her adored grandchildren, Nelson Townsend, Celia Albrecht, Nickolas Robles, Ashley Lanter-Read, and Kaitlyn Robles-Morgan, as well as her treasured great and great-great-grandchildren, Celia Robinson, Delia Miller, Thalia Townsend, Mark Robles, Jr., Myah Enloe, Serenity Albrecht, Dayton Albrecht, Leilani Albrecht, Damon Miller, Jaxson Miller, Abagail Miller, and Slade Robles. Celia's warmth and kindness extended beyond her family. She shared a special friendship with Pam and Darrin Lewis, whose lives she touched deeply. Her commitment to service and community was evident in her 26-year membership with St. Michael's Hispanic Ministry in Leesville, Louisiana, where she led the altar ministry with dedication and grace. Her faith was a guiding light, and she was a devout Catholic who found solace and purpose in her unwavering belief. In addition to her spiritual contributions, Celia was a devoted troop leader for the Cub Scouts, instilling values of integrity and leadership in young minds. Her passion for gardening was well-known, as she cultivated not only plants but also a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature in all who knew her. A celebration of Celia's remarkable life will be held on May 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Michael's Church, located at 604 S. 5th St., Leesville, LA 71446. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well-lived, to share stories, and to honor the profound impact she made on all who were fortunate to know her. Celia Margarita Santiago-Robles was a beacon of love, a nurturing soul, and a cherished matriarch whose legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Though she has left this earthly realm, her spirit will forever bloom in the gardens of our memories. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love she so generously shared.