Obituary of Santiago Portillo

Santiago Portillo was a caring husband, father, and grandfather. He left this world suddenly on January 9, 2024, at age 97.

He was born on May 25, 1926, to Maria de Jesus Ayalla Portillo and Santiago Portillo in Estanzuelas, Departamento de Usulutan, El Salvador. He spent most of his life in Boonton, NJ after he and his family immigrated to the United States.

Santiago lived a full and rich life, both in the United States and in his home country of El Salvador. He fought to bring his family to the U.S. for a better life and sacrificed much to make sure his family was able to have the best life possible. Santiago was deeply religious and had a close relationship with God. He was the pastor of a small church in his hometown. Santiago loved music, he sang in a band when he was young and continued his traditions of singing up until his passing. He taught himself how to play the guitar and spent many hours playing for his family. Santiago had a young soul, keeping up with his sons and he stayed active for as long as he could. He also loved a quiet evening with his family and he had the uncanny ability to brighten up a room.

Santiago is survived by his beloved wife, Mariana. He was a proud father to 11 children and a wonderful grandfather to 12. He will be remembered as a true family man; his cheerful attitude and happy songs will be missed by all his family. Santiago is remembered as a big-hearted, loving, compassionate, and giving man. He would give the shirt off his back for anyone and he always put the wellbeing of his family first.

Santiago’s visitation will be held at Codey and Mackey Funeral Home,107 Essex Ave, Boonton, NJ 07005 on Saturday, January 13th from 9:00am to 11:00am, with a prayer service at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ 07936.

To share a condolence with the family, please visit CodeyMackeyFH.com.