Help Sarai Honor Her Father: Carrying Antonio’s Love Forward

Hello, I'm Sarai Santiago, and thank you for visiting my father, Antonio’s, GoFundMe page.

Antonio peacefully passed away this past Friday, June 6—on what would have been my late mother’s birthday—at the age of 74.

As my family and I work through this profound loss, we are also facing the unexpected financial burden of planning his funeral services. Your support, in any form, means so much to us during this difficult time.

My late mother, Luz Santiago, passed away in 2019, so we are no strangers to the significant costs that come with laying a loved one to rest. In light of this, we’ve created this GoFundMe to give family, friends, and loved ones a way to honor Antonio’s memory.

All donations will go directly toward giving Antonio the respectful and heartfelt funeral service he deserves, while also helping to ease the financial burden on our family during this difficult time.

Because funeral arrangements must be made soon, we are hoping to raise the needed funds by Wednesday, June 18.

Any amount you’re able to contribute is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, we kindly ask that you consider sharing this campaign with others. Your support—whether through a donation or a share—means the world to us.

Thank you.

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A little bit about Antonio Santiago Jr.: Antonio Santiago Jr., affectionately known as "Junior," was a devoted father, a proud veteran, and a beloved member of his community. Born on September 22, 1951, in Patillas, Puerto Rico, Antonio lived a life filled with purpose, conviction, and joy. He peacefully passed away on June 6, 2025, in Passaic, New Jersey, on his late wife Luz Santiago's birthday.

Antonio dedicated most of his life to his work as an electrician. He showcased his skills through both established companies and his own business, Tony’s Refrigeration. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and reliability, Antonio was a problem solver and leader in every aspect of his work. He always faced his tasks with dedication and passion and strived to serve others by lending a helping hand.

Education played a meaningful role in Antonio's life. After high school, he pursued studies in theology, driven by his Christian faith. He found deep fulfillment in his church activities, cherishing moments spent singing praises to the Lord and playing musical instruments, including the guiro, maracas, and the shofar, a traditional instrument made from a ram’s horn. His joyful spirit resonated with those around him, often making people laugh with his goofy and light-hearted personality.

Antonio enjoyed his free time to the fullest, with fishing being one of his favorite pastimes. Many weekends were cherished on the water, casting lines and sharing laughter at various lakes with his brother Miguel and his best friend Pio. These were moments filled with camaraderie and love, memories that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

As a veteran of the United States Army, Antonio served his country with pride, carrying the values of duty and honor throughout his life. His proudest accomplishments included being a good father to his daughter Sarai, mentoring with kindness, and volunteering his time to help feed the homeless and needy at his church. He is survived by his daughter, Sarai Santiago, his six sisters—Damaris, Jacqueline, Madeline, and Ileana Rivera, Jannette Pereyra, Gloria Cabral—and his two brothers—Franklyn and Ivan Rivera—his nephew Macho—and his best friend Pio—who hold dear his warmth and love, and who will always cherish the family bond that they held together.

Antonio's departure leaves a profound void for his surviving loved ones. He is now reunited with his late wife, Luz; his second wife, Omayra Santiago; his brother, Miguel Rivera; his sister, Elba Rivera; his mother, Carmen Gonzalez Pagan; and his father, Eulogio Rivera Amill. Their collective memories intertwine with his legacy, echoing the love and laughter he so generously shared.

Antonio Santiago Jr. will be remembered for his dedication to service and to others, his love for creating with drawing and goldsmithing, and his passion for life, which included playing his favorite games and working with computers. He impacted many lives and created a legacy of love and service that will be honored and cherished for generations to come.