Ana Maria Rivera-Santiago

Ana Rivera-Santiago, daughter of the late Manuel Torres Rodriguez and Esmeralda Torres Leyva Castañeda, was born on September 3, 1940, in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. One of sixteen children, she arrived in the United States as a political refugee in January 1963, carrying with her the courage, faith, and resilience that would define her life.

In June 1968, Ana was united in Holy Matrimony to her beloved husband, Dr. Rene Rivera-Santiago (deceased). Together they shared nearly fifty years of marriage, building a loving home and raising a family grounded in faith, sacrifice, and devotion.

Ana's greatest calling was her family. She was a loving and devoted mother who poured her heart into raising her children, but it was her role as "Abuela" that brought her the greatest joy. Her grandchildren's happiness was her greatest reward, and their accomplishments filled her with pride. They were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Whether it was a school program, graduation, doctor's appointment, everyday milestone, or simply a ride across town, Ana was always there—giving her time, energy, and love without hesitation and offering encouragement, support, and unconditional love.

Ana expressed her love through service and hospitality. An exceptional cook, she brought family and friends together around meals prepared with care and joy. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and belonging, where memories were made and traditions were shared. Family gatherings will never be quite the same without her delicious Cuban and Puerto Rican cooking and her welcoming spirit.

A devoted Catholic, Ana lived her faith every day through kindness, humility, and service to others. She had a remarkable ability to recognize needs before they were spoken and quietly stepped in to help without seeking recognition. On her many trips back home to Cuba, she helped fund wells for families in need, provided medicine and medical supplies to children's hospitals, supported orphanages, assisted students who lacked educational resources, clothed those in need, and provided canes for the elderly and visually impaired. She also delighted children, often carrying small toys and candies in her pockets to share. Her compassion and generosity touched countless lives, and friends, family, neighbors, and strangers alike could always count on her for a comforting word, a warm meal, or a helping hand.

Ana embraced life with enthusiasm, finding joy in music, dancing, laughter, and bringing people together. She departed this life on Sunday, June 14, in Kennesaw, Georgia, with her devoted daughter by her side, just three months after being diagnosed with stomach cancer. She faced her illness with remarkable grace and strength, surrounded by the love of her family. Though her earthly journey has ended, the countless lives she touched through her generosity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to others stand as her lasting legacy.

Ana is survived by her daughter, Lissette Rivera-Pauley, and grandsons Franklin Pauley IV and Alex Pauley; son Rene Rivera II and grandson Rene Felipe Rivera III; son Alfredo Chavez and daughter Clara Elena Chavez; along with many surviving siblings, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Ana's love, wisdom, strength, and selfless spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered. She was the heart of her family—the one everyone could count on, the one who showed up without being asked, and the one who made every person feel loved, welcomed, and important. While the void left by her passing can never be filled, her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now whole again, free from pain, reunited with her beloved husband and loved ones who have gone before her, and welcomed into her eternal home in the loving presence of God. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the lives she uplifted, and the enduring example she set through a life devoted to love and service.

The family will mourn the loss of Ana in a private viewing on June 19. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.