Reina M. Santiago

Reina M. Santiago, of Boxford, formerly a resident of Salem, Massachusetts for more than fifty years, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 88 on Friday, December 15, 2023. Born on June 10, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Juana M. Santiago of Peabody, Massachusetts, and Aquiles A. Bermudez of Santiago, Dominican Republic. Reina was a hardworking woman who dedicated all her time to raising and supporting her children to ensure they could succeed. She was a faithful member of the Catholic Church and an avid bingo player who never missed a Sunday game. Reina spent every Saturday afternoon surrounded by her neighbors, cooking and enjoying each other’s company. Reina loved to cook for her children and grandchildren and could always be found dancing with them or beating them in dominos. She believed that anything from mosquito bites to a hangover could be cured with the power of Vicks or with a few Stella D’oro Roman Egg Biscuits. Reina’s legacy as an amazing mother and Nana is undeniable. Her resilience, determination, and stubbornness will be missed dearly. Reina’s family was her pride and joy. She leaves behind a loving family, including her children: John Hernandez and his wife Michelle of Boxford, Martiza Hernandez of Gloucester, Marcy Cooney and her husband Tom of Salem, Carlos Hernandez and his wife Joanne of Saugus, Angela Hernandez of Florida, and Mary Hernandez of New York. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Jacqueline, Victoria, Myles, Justin, Felicia, Alicia, Ashley, Hector, Melissa, Vanessa, Kevin, and Jean. She also leaves four great-grandchildren, Angel, Shannely, Jaedaliz, Chloe, and a great-great-grandchild, Dior. She was predeceased by her children, Altagracia (Tata) Santiago and Frank Hernandez. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at 10AM in Saint Mary of the Annunciation Church, 24 Conant St., Danvers. Burial will follow in Annunciation Cemetery, Danvers. Relatives and friends are invited. Visiting hours are Tuesday from 4-7PM in C.R. Lyons & Sons Funeral Directors, 28 Elm St., Danvers Square. In lieu of flowers, donations in Reina’s name may be made to Catholic Charities, 275 W Broadway, Boston, MA 02127. To share an expression of sympathy with Reina’s family, please visit www.LyonsFuneral.com.