Ernestina Santos

Mrs. Ernestina Santos passed away on Wednesday, February 4 at the age of 87. She is survived by her four children, and her husband of 66 years, Francisco Santos. Ernestina was born in Laredo, Texas on March 23, 1939 to Amando and Maria del Refugio Vizcaya Ramirez. She attended Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic School and continued her high school education at Ursuline Academy. She lived in San Antonio for a short while to complete medical training, then returned home to marry Francisco. Francisco and Ernestina made their home in San Antonio, where she cultivated their active lives at home. Across her lifetime, Ernestina remained steadfast in living out the virtues that defined her. She was diligent in the daily tasks of caring for husband and children, with a spirit that embraced challenges. Ernestina loved the outdoors and tending to their home, often involving the children in gardening and home renovation projects, teaching them valuable life lessons. She was known for maintaining a beautiful garden, and her knowledge of tree and flower species was expansive. She also loved to entertain. Wherever the family lived, home was always the gathering place for extracurricular activities, morning breakfasts for the football team, and large Easter parties for friends and extended family. She carried that love throughout their lives into the grandchildren years, always fostering an environment of community and keeping the family together. One of Ernestina’s most cherished qualities was the compassion and concern she showed toward many people in her life. Over a period of 25 years, Ernestina was central in caring for friends and family who suffered through tragedies and grave illnesses, from providing end of life care for her sister and mother, to supporting her husband during his battle with cancer. Ernestina and her husband were also very active at their parish, giving their time and talents through RCIA sponsorships, teaching catechism classes, teaching English to the immigrant community as well as helping them secure citizenship. In all her actions, however imperfect, she strove to live a Christian life and give dignity and love to those in need. She will be missed dearly by husband, children, and grandchildren, who are all grateful to have been a part of her life. A rosary will be said at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026 at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church 7810 Cypresswood Drive Spring Tx 77379. Requiem Mass to follow at 11 a.m.

Ernestina Santos

March 23, 1939 - February 4, 2026