Maria Morales

Maria Morales, born on August 17, 1943, in Maunabo, Puerto Rico, to the loving union of Trinidad and Seferina Santiago, entered into eternal rest on December 17, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family. 

Maria was one of nine siblings raised in a household filled with faith, love, and music. She carried these values throughout her life as a devoted wife to the late Rev. Santos Morales Sr., a loving mother to Marilyn, Santos Jr. Evette, and Janelly. 

When not dedicating time in prayer and devotion to her Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, Maria found joy in cooking for her family, crocheting beautiful creations, and sharing her musical talents. Coming from a musical family, Maria sang and played guitar in the family band in New York, her melodies a testament to her love for God. 

Maria’s love for her family was boundless, only surpassed by her devotion to her Savior. A faithful member of Filipenses 4:13, Iglesia El Calvario, and Resurrection Center, she remained steadfast in her faith even when illness made her homebound. Her unwavering faith, constant prayers, and joyful spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her. To know Maria was to know love, laughter, and joy. 

Though her passing leaves a profound void, her family takes comfort in knowing that Maria has entered her eternal reward and reunited with her parents, Trinidad and Seferina Santiago, her beloved husband, Rev. Santos Morales Sr., and her dear siblings, William Morales, Erminio Santiago, and Benjamin Santiago. 

Maria’s legacy lives on through her loving children: Marilyn Rodriguez, Santos Morales Jr., Evette Merced, and Janelly Ortega; her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her siblings, Jesus Martinez, Josefina Lebron, Ermitaño Santiago, Rosa Alvarado and Daniel Morales; and a host of extended family and friends who were blessed by her life. 

Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m., and Friday, January 3, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Slone & Co. Life Celebration Center 3556 W. 130th St. Cleveland, OH 44111, where a service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Interment Riverside Cemetery.