Basilisa Canete Santiago

It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Basilisa Santiago, who peacefully left this world on January 12, 2025, at the age of 87. She had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma in December 2024. Unfortunately, her health declined rapidly, but she was surrounded by her loved ones at the time of her passing.

Basilisa was born in Mindanao, Philippines, and she spent her life bringing laughter, warmth, and love to those around her. Known for her infectious sense of humor, she had a gift for cracking jokes and lightening the mood in any room she entered. Whether sharing a funny story or teasing her loved ones with her playful banter, her humor was a constant source of joy and comfort for her family and friends.

She spent many years working as a dedicated caregiver in the United States, where she provided compassionate care to others with the same love and attention she showed her own family. Before making her mark in the U.S., she proudly owned and operated a sari-sari store in the Philippines, where she was known not only for her business acumen but also for her kindness and generosity to all who walked through her doors.

Basilisa leaves behind a remarkable legacy. She is survived by her 6 children, 28 grandchildren, and 37 great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she was a constant source of strength, love, and laughter in their lives. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Thomas Jr., and other loved ones who have gone before her. Her unwavering dedication to her family, her infectious spirit, and her deep faith will forever be remembered.

While we mourn her loss, we take comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind. Basilisa’s legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

May she rest in peace, reunited with her husband and son, and those who have gone before her, and may her memory continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who were blessed to know her.