Jesus "Chuito" Santiago

He had been battling lung cancer for several months and is now at peace.

Chuito is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Maria L. Ramos; his three children, Luz Nereida Santiago, Jose Rey Santiago, and Rosa Marysela Santiago, their spouses Alexis Rivera, Carmen Capo, and Rolando Nieves, and his grandchildren Lucian, Frances, Kevin, Elaine, Dave Matthew, and Kyle, and three great grandchildren Alani, Jaidyn, and Farrah. He had three surviving sisters, Niltha Santiago, Judith Enelia Santiago, and Awilda Santiago, and many friends that he made in Puerto Rico, the Bronx, and through the last 27 years in the Tampa community.

Jesus Santiago Lebron was born in Patillas, Puerto Rico to Rosa Maria Lebron and Jesus Santiago-Torres on May 04, 1946. He grew up in the Bronx before returning to live in Puerto Rico where he met his forever best friend and wife. He joined the United States Navy and served his country during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1971. He had many career positions including Salesman at Sears Roebuck in Puerto Rico, Vault Teller with Bank of America, Skycap at Tampa International Airport, and owned various businesses including Santiago’s Video Recording and La Palmita Cash Check in his native island of Puerto Rico.

Through the years, Chuito played basketball and participated in Track & Field Competitions. He was an inspiration inside and outside the basketball court. He was an example of commitment, responsibility, and service. He loved listening to music and singing at church. He had a special light that touched many that had a pleasure to met him. His personality did not go unnoticed from being punctual to his leadership skills as many remember him. He was a faithful servant of God, a beloved husband, and a family man. His wife, kids, grandkids, and great grandkids meant the world to him.

He will be dearly missed, but we take comfort knowing that he is in his eternal resting place.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on August 20,2023 at 6802 Silvermill Dr., Tampa, Florida 33635. Arrangements by Blount & Curry Funeral Home Oldsmar West Hillsborough Chapel.