In Loving Memory of Antonio "Tony" Santiago

1941 – 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Antonio "Tony" Santiago, who departed this life peacefully on July 10, 2025, in Crowley, Texas. He was 83 years old.

Tony was born on December 21, 1941, in Salinas, Puerto Rico. At a young age, Tony and his family moved to the Bronx, New York, where he was raised with strong values, boundless energy, and a joyful spirit that would stay with him throughout his life. From his earliest days, Tony was a devoted and obedient son, always wearing a bright, contagious smile that seemed to warm every room he entered.

A proud graduate of high school in 1959, Tony answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served his country with honor and distinction from September 13, 1962 - June 30, 1985, almost 23 years as a Civil Engineer, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Tony displayed unwavering courage and leadership, earning the admiration of his peers and the lifelong gratitude of a nation. After retiring from active service, he remained a steadfast supporter of fellow veterans through his membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), an organization that meant a great deal to him.

Tony's faith guided him through every chapter of his life. He was baptized in the Catholic Church, and later became a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His spiritual journey reflected the kindness and humility with which he lived—an open-hearted man who forgave easily, loved generously, and greeted every day with a joyful heart.

Those who knew Tony will forever remember his "happy-go-lucky" nature. He was down-to-earth, full of life, and the heartbeat of every gathering. Whether dancing to his favorite songs, sharing stories of his Air Force days, or simply enjoying good company, Tony had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome. He had a deep love for music, and it was not uncommon to find him tapping his feet or swaying to the rhythm with a grin stretched wide across his face.

Tony's life was defined not only by his service and his spirit, but by the love he gave so freely to family and friends. He was a proud grandfather to Carlos Antonio Santiago and a doting great-grandfather to Kardelle Santiago. His legacy continues through his beloved sisters: Elba Santiago, Elizabeth Santiago, and Naomi Santiago-Flinn; his cherished sister-in-law Bettie Hafford; and his devoted best friend and caregiver, Tasha Snell, whose compassion and loyalty were a source of great comfort in his later years. Tony also leaves behind a large extended family and many dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Tony is now reunited in eternal peace with his beloved wife, Ethel Mae Francis Santiago; his treasured daughter, Tamara Renee Santiago; his parents, Domingo and Genevieve Santiago; his brother, Carlos Manuel Santiago; and his niece, Nilda Santiago.

A visitation will be held in Tony's honor on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 9:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, 4200 Denton Highway, Haltom City, Texas, 76117. A military committal will follow at 2:30 PM at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 75211.

Antonio "Tony" Santiago lived a life full of service, laughter, and love. His memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew him. In every smile, in every song, and in every shared story, his light will continue to shine.

May he rest in eternal peace.