Sandra Irene Santillano

Born in Stockton on May 28, 1951, to Mary & Jesse Trujillo. Sandy grew up with a zest for life and a love of laughter that remained with her throughout her lifetime.

She was a graduate of Franklin High School in 1969. It was around this time that she met the love of her life, Rudy Santillano.

Sandy balanced her early career at Alpha Beta, while pursuing her education, graduating from Delta College with an AA degree in 1972. Soon after graduating, she married Rudy in October 1972.

Sandy and Rudy then purchased a home, started a family. Daughter Vanessa was born, followed by Carlos 2 years later. In 1984 she experienced the heartbreaking loss of her husband Rudy. Sandy then became a pillar of strength for her children, by providing and protecting them as a single mother. Soon after, she changed careers which led to her retiring from Save Mart as a pharmacy technician after 30+ years.

She loved life out loud. She enjoyed travel, music, and the company of good friends. Whether she was walking with her neighborhood group, caring for her beloved cats & dogs, or telling her story of how she won her red Dodge Challenger in a contest at work. Sandy's presence was a gift.

Sandy was a keeper of her personal and family history, including saving sentimental scraps of paper that touched her heart.

She is survived by her children, daughter Vanessa, son Carlos, daughter-in-law Elsa, 2 grandchildren Sophie and Maisie, sister Cynthia and brother-in -law Max.

She will be deeply missed by those knew her.

A visitation will be held at DeYoung Memorial Chapel, located at 601 N. California St., Stockton, CA 95202, on January 14, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A Rosary will take place at the same venue from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm on the same day.

A church service will be held at St. Gertrude's Catholic Church, located at 1663 E, Main St, Stockton, CA 95205, on January 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A reception lunch following the funeral services at 1:00pm at

Beijing Buffet

1025 W Robinhood Dr

Stockton, Ca 95207

Pallbearers;

Carlos Santillano

Vanessa Santillano

Timothy Perez

James Eischens

Patrick Bradley

Jovanna Martinez