Esther Castillo

Born in Ballinger, Texas, Esther spent her childhood between Bakersfield and San Jose, California, before settling in San Jose during her elementary school years. She graduated from San Jose High School, where her life's greatest love story began.

Esther and Santiago Castillo II met as young teens and their love blossomed into a remarkable 70-year journey together. They celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary on September 22nd, just weeks before her passing. Together they raised three amazing children—Santiago III, Lucinda, and Lori—filling their home with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. Esther poured her heart into working in the home, running a daycare where she nurtured countless young lives, and partnering with Santiago in managing a residential real estate business.

Esther's kind, sweet, and warm spirit touched everyone who knew her. Whether it was her children or grandchildren, everyone could count on a loving welcome of "mijo" or "mija" as soon as they walked in the door. Her generosity knew no bounds. All of her grandchildren treasure joyful memories of swimming all day and into the night during the many magical summers of their childhood at her home.

An athlete at heart, Esther brought joy and enthusiasm to everything she did. She was a phenomenal golfer and bowler, winning many trophies and accolades over the years, but more than winning, she loved the camaraderie and fun. She cherished her time with friends at the YMCA, swimming and working out at the gym. Whether playing checkers with family or on the golf course, her competitive spirit was matched only by her warmth. She loved golfing along the beautiful California coast with Santiago, spending treasured days together in Monterey and Carmel.

Family was Esther's greatest joy. She delighted in family cruises to warm destinations like the Caribbean and Mexico, and traveled to Europe, always bringing everyone together. Her leap year birthdays were celebrations of togetherness, filled with games—bowling, bingo, Yahtzee—because what mattered most to Esther was seeing her loved ones enjoying their time together.

Esther is survived by her devoted husband, Santiago Castillo II; children Lucinda Castillo Elston and Lori Castillo Martinez; grandchildren Santiago Castillo IV, Michael Castillo, Christina Castillo, Stephanie Elston, Cruz Castillo, Katherine Elston, Diego Martinez, and Joaquin Martinez; 15 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.