Obituary of Josefa Santiago-Arroyo

Josefa Santiago Arroyo ASHTABULA – Josefa Santiago Arroyo, 84, was surrounded in love by her family as she began her journey to her heavenly home on Saturday, August 8, 2020. The daughter of Juan and Cristina Santiago Arroyo, Josefa was born on March 13, 1936 in Lares, Puerto Rico. She came to the United States in 1978 to be with her children. Josefa is a member of Our Lady of Peace Parish, St. Joseph Church. Josefa was privileged to stay home and care for her children. She was a wonderful gardener; whether it was a vegetable garden or her flower bed she tended them with love. She shared her knowledge of gardening with her family and friends. She shared her produce from her garden with those in need. She had wonderful cooking skills and people looked forward to be invited to her home to share a meal. Josefa loved to dance, she like all types of music; she also loved to travel. Her greatest enjoyment came from her family; her husband Juan died at a very early age and she reared her ten children as a single mother. She gave them love, encouragement, and a home. She was so proud of her children; grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her love for them was endless. Josefa is survived by her children, Isaia(Janet) Vera, Emilio(Gladys) Vera, Maria(Luis) Vera, Mercedes (Wichi) Vera, Santo Vera, Angel Luis(Blanca) Vera Javier (Aida) Vera with whom she made her home, Sandra Vera, and Yolanda Roman;twenty-eight beloved grandchildren; forty great-grandchildren many loving nieces and nephews. Josefa was preceded in death by her daughter, Maria DeCarmen Vera who died in infancy; her husband, Juan, and her siblings;and her parents. Mass of Christian Burial will at 1:00PM on August 14, 2020 at St. Joseph Church, 3312 Lake Avenue, Ashtabula, Ohio, 44004. Rev. Raymond Thomas presiding. Burial will be at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Geneva, Ohio. A calling hour from 12 Noon until time of Mass at 1:00PM will be held at St. Joseph Church, 3312 Lake Avenue, Ashtabula, Ohio. ZABACK-WILLIAMS-DUCRO FUNERAL HOME,500 West Prospect Road, Ashtabula, Ohio is assisting the family. www.ducro.com