Our family is heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, Maria De Lourdes “Lulu” Santiago, who left us on May 23, 2026, at the age of 64. Born in Cayey, Puerto Rico, Lulu was the matriarch and heart of our family who loved her children and grandchildren despite the obstacles life threw her way and settled in Delano, CA.
As a mother of four and a grandmother of nine, Lulu was a woman of quiet strength and few words whose life was defined by hard work and simplicity. She faced life’s challenges directly without complaints and pretense which created the strong foundation we see in her family today.
Lulu had a strong work ethic and was fiercely independent, and although she wasn’t one for grand gestures, those closest to her never doubted her love. She gave her family truth and exemplified how to stand strong in a complicated world.
Lulu is survived by her four children, Bethzaida, Doris, Carlos, Alex and her grandchildren.
Though she is no longer with us, we will forever remember her steady spirit and the love she fought to give. May she rest in peace.
A Rosary will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 1015 Clinton St., Delano, CA 93215, US, on June 17, 2026, at 9:30 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at the same location on June 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
A Committal Service will take place at North Kern Cemetery District, 627 Austin St., Delano, CA 93215, US, on June 17, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.
