Jose Santiago Ramos, Sr.

Jose Santiago Ramos, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, proud Vietnam veteran, and man of faith, was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at the age of 82.

Jose was born on July 25, 1944, in Dublin, California, to parents Meliton F. Ramos and Maria M. Orta Ramos.

One of the greatest blessings of his life was his loving wife, Antonia R. Ramos, to whom he was married for 58 beautiful years. Their story began long before their wedding day; they first met as young students in middle school. What began as a young friendship grew into a lifelong love and partnership. For 58 years, they shared life's joys, challenges, milestones, and memories, building a family and a life together. Their enduring love was a beautiful reflection of commitment, faith, and devotion.

In 1965, Jose answered the call to serve his country and proudly joined the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War as a medic. His time in Vietnam was a defining chapter of his life, and he carried the memories and experiences of his service with him throughout the years.

His commitment to serving his country did not end when his active-duty service was complete. Following his service in the United States Army, Jose continued his dedication to his country by serving an additional 27 years in the United States Air Force Reserve, ultimately retiring after an extraordinary lifetime of military service.

Jose also served his beloved community of San Antonio. He dedicated 35 years to the City of San Antonio Traffic Signal Department, where his hard work, knowledge, leadership, and commitment earned him the respect of those he worked alongside. During his career, he rose to the position of supervisor, taking pride in his work and in the responsibility of helping keep the city's traffic systems operating safely and efficiently.

While his accomplishments in the military and in his career were many, those who knew him best will remember that his greatest pride was his family. He was a man who believed in being present for the people he loved, and giving more than he ever asked for in return. He was a steady presence in the lives of those around him, a source of wisdom, strength, humor, unconditional love, and faith.

Jose was also a man who knew how to enjoy life. He loved watching the Yankees and the Spurs, and, yes, he even enjoyed watching the Cowboys. Although, anyone who knew him knew there was a good chance he would get pretty mad at them along the way.

He enjoyed going to Kickapoo and, really, just about any casino. He enjoyed taking trips, and the memories made along the way.

Whenever Jose found himself back in his old neighborhood, he became the neighborhood tour guide. He would point out the places he remembered and tell you how far he had to walk growing up. And, of course, every stop seemed to come with a story from his childhood. Those stories gave his family a glimpse into the boy he once was and the life that helped shape the man he became.

Jose loved his tacos, and breakfast tacos held a special place in his heart and stomach. He had his favorite spot and made sure to enjoy his breakfast tacos every day, especially from Leticia's. It was one of those simple routines that became a beloved part of who he was.

He loved listening to oldies, and he had the record collection to prove it. His records were more than music; they were pieces of memories, a reflection of the times he lived through and the songs that became part of his life.

His faith was an important part of his life. Jose was a devoted parishioner of St. Dominic Catholic Church for more than 40 years. His faith was reflected not only in his presence at church, but also in the generosity and love he showed to his church.

He was preceded in death by his sons, Mark A. Ramos, Sr. and Adrian C. Ramos; grandson, Adrian C. Rangel; parents, Meliton F. Ramos and Maria M. Orta Ramos; and brothers, Guadalupe Ramos and Jesse “Chuy” Ramos.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife, Antonia; his children, Joe Ramos, Jr., Juan Ramos (Irma), Jesse Ramos, Raquel Morales (David), and Amy Martinez (Roland); 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; his beloved grandpups; as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

Jose lived a full life, it was one of service, sacrifice, leadership, devotion, faith, family, and love. He served his country with honor, served his community with pride, and loved his family with all his heart. Above all, he was a husband who spent 58 years loving and caring for the woman he first met as a young boy in middle school.

And perhaps the greatest reflection of that love was in his final moments. He waited until she was there beside him before he took his last breath. He left this world with the woman he had loved for a lifetime by his side. It was a final testament to the extraordinary bond they shared.

We take comfort knowing, our beloved father, Jose's earthly journey is complete and that he has been welcomed into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father. Though our hearts are heavy with his absence, we hold tightly to our faith and the promise of eternal life.

Rest peacefully, Dad. Your service is complete. Your work here is done. Your sacrifice is remembered, your legacy lives on, and the love you shared will remain in our hearts forever. We will carry you with us until we meet again.

Revelation 21:4

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain.”

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary, with a rosary to follow at 7:00 p.m.

A procession will depart from Porter Loring Mortuary on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 9:30 am for the Funeral Mass which will take at 10:00 a.m. at San Fernando Cathedral, 115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205.

Father Guillermo Cruz-Hernandez will officiate. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.