Benito Santiago Jr. of Warwick, Rhode Island, went to heaven on April 30, 2020, at the age of 47.
Benito was born in Boston, Massachusetts to Benito Sr. and Esperanza Santiago, November 30, 1972. Raised in the city of Boston, Benito attended college at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, Massachusetts. There he joined the fraternity AXP and made many life-long friends. He made an impression on everyone he met and will be remembered for his big, bright smile.
He loved all types of music, comedy shows and was an avid Boston Sports fan, especially the Red Sox. He proudly displayed the “B” tattooed on his left arm. One of his favorite quotes was, “If you mess with the bull, you get the horns.”
He met his wife Jill in 2001 and relocated to Warwick, Rhode Island. They married in 2007 and Benito adopted her children, Anthony and Claudia. Benito was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2005. Despite the serious diagnosis, he continued to train his body with weights and exercise daily, for as long as he could. As his condition progressed he developed significant disability and lived this past year at West Shore Health Center in Warwick, Rhode Island. There he was regarded as the star resident – a favorite among the staff.
He is survived by his wife Jill Santiago, children Anthony and Claudia Santiago all of Providence, Rhode Island; his parents, Benito Sr. and Esperanza Santiago of Yabucoa, Puerto Rico; brothers, Irving “Papo” Santiago of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Eric Santiago of Oceanside, California, and Jose Antonio Santiago of Yabucoa, Puerto Rico. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial donations may be made in Benito’s name to: The National MS Society or Americares which provides PPE to health care workers battling coronavirus (Americares.org).
In memory of my wonderful brother, Benito Jr. He was not just a brother to me, but a brother to all. Rest In Peace and until we meet again, Brother Junior.
-ES
My Condolences to the family, I did not know him personally but heard so much of him from Eric that I felt I knew him and his family. He will be missed but not forgotten from so many including myself. Qué dios le de forteleza ala familia Y los bendigan. Benito QDEP.
Through my friend Eric, several years ago I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Benito and found him very pleasant to be around. The time I spent with Benito, he was always very positive and grateful.
Welcomed with open arms under God, in heaven he will be happy, whole and alive.
My best wishes to Benito in heaven and his family here on Earth.
Sincerely,
Stan
Jill, I’m so sorry for your loss. Im thinking of you and your family.