In Loving Memory of Joseph Simon Santoya

July 12, 1982 – July 4, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Joseph Simon Santoya, who left this world far too soon at the age of 43.

Joseph is lovingly survived by his devoted parents, Stella Reyna and David Santoya. He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Grandpa Juan A. Reyna, Grandpa Adolfo G. Santoya, Grandma Olga Reyna and Grandma Guadalupe Santoya; uncles: Victor Reyna, Robert Santoya, Samuel Santoya, and Adolph Santoya. He is survived by his brother, David Lee Santoya, and his sister, Olga Santoya, Niece Nevaeh “Two-Tone” with whom he shared an unbreakable lifelong bond that time and distance could never diminish.

He leaves behind his cherished children, Mariah Santoya Hernandez, Destiny Santoya Hernandez, Johnathan DeLeon, and Lillyana Santoya, who were the greatest joys of his life. He is also survived by his beloved grandson, Marcelo Gonzales, his treasured goddaughter, Camila Flores, along with many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and extended family members, nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him deeply.

Joseph shared a profound and loving bond with Alice DeLeon and Art DeLeon, who embraced him as their own son and became a second set of parents in every sense of the word. Their family welcomed Joseph with unconditional love, and that connection remained a meaningful and cherished part of his life.

Joseph will be remembered for his humor, his generous spirit, and his unwavering willingness to help anyone in need. He had a way of making people laugh even in difficult moments, and he lived with a heart that gave freely—never hesitating to offer support, kindness, or the shirt off his back to someone in need.

Though he carried his struggles quietly and believed he had to face them on his own, we find comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering. We trust he has been welcomed into the arms of God and is now resting in eternal peace.

Joseph’s love, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know him. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, July 13, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd., Saginaw, MI 48603. Pastors Julian and Ava Gonzales. Will officiate. Honoring Joseph’s wishes cremation will take place following services. Friends may visit with the family at the funeral chapel from 2:00pm – 8:00pm on Sunday, July 12, 2026, as well as Monday morning from 10:00 am until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may make memorials to the wishes of the family c/o Maria Stella Delagarza.