Gladys Santiago
Rochester, New York
The Matriarch of our family left to be with the Lord and her loved ones on, August 4, 2022 at the age of 75.
Predeceased by her, fathers, Dioniso Matos, and Pedro Ruiz; mother, Flora Ruiz.
She is survived by her daughter, Vivian Santiago; son, Jaime (Susan) Santiago Jr.; grandson, Joseph Cruz; granddaughter and caretaker, Ryan Cruz; grandsons, Jaime Santiago III, Alexander J. Santiago, Benjamin Vasquez, Jeremy Powell, Isiah Powell; great grandson, Joseph Antonio Cruz, Jr.; great granddaughter, Lola Joli Cruz; and many loved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Gladys was a strong advocate not only for the community and the City of Rochester, but for every soul within her sphere of influence. Her ability to represent and be the voice to every man, woman and child that crossed her path was her strongest and most courageous trait. A trailblazer and a force to be reckoned with on behalf of the community. She started her service for the community at the Anthony Jordan Health Center, later moving to the Ibero-American Action League where she served for 23 years as Vice President. During that time, she also went on to serve the community on The City Council for over a decade advocating for the community, retiring as the President of the City Council in 2009. After retiring from the City Council, she also served briefly at Rural/Metro, in an advisory role. Gladys will be dearly missed by her family and all those who loved her and whom she touched. Her influence will continue to live on.
Family will receive friends, Wednesday, August 10th from 11AM-1PM and 4PM-7PM at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 6 Empire Boulevard, Rochester, NY 14609 and on Thursday, August 11th 9AM-11AM at St. Michael's Church. Gladys' Funeral Mass will immediately follow at 11AM at St. Michael's Church, 859 N. Clinton Avenue, Rochester, NY 14605.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Ibero Hispanic Scholarship Fund, 585-256-8900 x.631 and Wounded Warrior Project at www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org in Gladys' memory.