Donna Santiago
New London — Donna Marie Santiago, 65, of New London, peacefully passed away Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, at Yale New Haven Hospital in New Haven. Donna was born May 11, 1957, in Brooklyn, N.Y. She was one of four children, with her sisters, Michelle and Debbie, as well as her brother Raymond.
She attended school in New York City, and received her high school equivalency diploma. In July of 1988, she and her children moved to New London, with Elaine Reyes, a lifelong sister and friend. While living in New London, she found herself working in the medical industry. She worked as a certified nurse’s aide for several years. Donna later switched careers and returned back to the food service industry for New London public schools. She found the most fulfillment in serving the United States Coast Guard Academy. She had a combined service of over 20 years working for Aramark as a cook/ server with so many of her lifelong friends.
Donna loved her children, her friends and family. Her door was always open and the food was always ready.
She loved to feed and serve others. “Just eat,” she would say so often. Many people will remember her by one of her many famous sayings, “the Donnaisms.” “You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone,” was another Donnaism. She was right; we do! She was a kind, caring, generous, thoughtful, selfless mother with a great sense of humor and a real friend to anyone within reach — a true “Brooklyn Girl.”
She is survived by her children, Angel Aybar, Samantha Lugo and Anthony Santiago. Donna has been blessed to watch and help raise 10 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, Joanna. She’s predeceased by her mother Rose; and her father unknown; as well as her loving daughter Vanessa Aybar, who battled with cancer and passed on
July 30, 2020.
Donna was an active member of THE CHURCH in downtown New London. Her love for Jesus Christ compelled her to serve on different ministries. She remained faithful and grew to love the Word of God.
THE CHURCH will be hosting her Homegoing Celebration at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at the Revelation Church Ministry Center, 20 Grove Street, Groton. The family has asked that any donations and flower arrangements be made to THE CHURCH c/o Donna Santiago, 207 Bank Street, New London, Connecticut 06320. For more information and details, please call 860-5019255. Mrs. Santiago’s family invites you to offer condolences, share memories and view Donna’s online video tribute at www.neilanfuneralhome.com. The Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London is assisting the family with the arrangements.