Celia Margarita Santiago-Robles' Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Celia Margarita Santiago-Robles, who journeyed peacefully into eternal rest on May 24, 2026, at the age of 85. Celia was born on July 30, 1940, in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, to her loving parents, Agueda Vazquez and Julio Santiago, who preceded her in death, as did her cherished husband of over 40 years, Nelson Robles-Vazquez, and her brother, Manuel Vazquez.
Celia's life was a tapestry of love, devotion, and vibrant experiences. As a florist by trade, she possessed a unique ability to bring beauty and joy to others through her delicate arrangements and nurturing spirit. Her journey through life was marked by her adventurous spirit, as she traveled extensively with her military family and lived in diverse corners of the world, each place adding a new chapter to her rich and storied life.
Her greatest pride and joy were her family, with whom she shared countless memories and an unbreakable bond. Celia leaves behind her beloved children: Delia Robles-Lanter and husband Douglas; Nelson Robles, Jr. and wife Viki; and Mark Robles and wife Michelle. Her legacy continues through her adored grandchildren, Nelson Townsend, Celia Albrecht, Nickolas Robles, Ashley Lanter-Read, and Kaitlyn Robles-Morgan, as well as her treasured great and great-great-grandchildren, Celia Robinson, Delia Miller, Thalia Townsend, Mark Robles, Jr., Myah Enloe, Serenity Albrecht, Dayton Albrecht, Leilani Albrecht, Damon Miller, Jaxson Miller, Abagail Miller, Slade Robles, Elizabeth Read, Cara Read and Dean Read
Celia's warmth and kindness extended beyond her family. She shared a special friendship with Pam and Darrin Lewis, whose lives she touched deeply. Her commitment to service and community was evident in her 26-year membership with St. Michael's Hispanic Ministry in Leesville, Louisiana, where she led the altar ministry with dedication and grace. Her faith was a guiding light, and she was a devout Catholic who found solace and purpose in her unwavering belief.
In addition to her spiritual contributions, Celia was a devoted Cub Scout troop leader, instilling values of integrity and leadership in young minds. Her passion for gardening was well-known, as she cultivated not only plants but also a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature in all who knew her.
A Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at St. Michael's Church, located at 604 S. 5th St., Leesville, LA 71446. A Rosary Service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well lived and to honor the profound impact she made on all who were fortunate to know her.
Funeral Service will be Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Father Travis and Father Michiels, at St. Michael's Church. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home.
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