She was born in Yauco, Puerto Rico, the daughter of the late Lalo Rodriguez and Ramona Cordero Rodriguez. Yeli was the beloved wife of the late Felipe Santiago; loving mother of Joe Santiago, Saul (Nilvia) Santiago Sr.,Tati (George) Velez and the late Annette Santiago; cherished grandmother of Tito Velez, Benny Velez, Lisa (Chino) Velez Caraballo, Saul Santiago Jr., Jaime Santiago, Margie Santiago, Jason Santiago; great-grandmother of Ricky, Richie, Justin, Jessica, Miguel Jr., AJ, Andre and great-great grandmother of 15; dear sister of Miguel, Anine, Radames and Junior. She was predeceased by her siblings, Rene, Hayde and Renervan; adored aunt of many.
Born and raised in Yauco, Puerto Rico, she had a gift for bringing people together. She loved cooking for family and friends, with Christmas being her favorite time to host gatherings filled with joy, laughter, and love. She had a passion for singing and dancing, especially to her beloved Christmas songs, which always filled her home with warmth. She enjoyed long car rides through the countryside and welcomed everyone into her home with open arms, always ready to offer coffee, food, and a kind heart.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 4PM-8PM at Craciun Berry Funeral Home, 7200 Detroit Avenue, Cleveland, where funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11AM. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Brook Park.
