Santiago "Chato" Quintanilla

Santiago "Chato" Quintanilla, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, in his hometown of Donna, Texas. Born on July 26, 1956, in Donna, Santiago lived a life marked by kindness, warmth, and an infectious sense of humor that endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Known for his unwavering generosity, Santiago had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel at ease, always greeting friends and family with a welcoming smile and an open heart. He cherished spending time with those closest to him, especially during lively barbecues where laughter and stories flowed freely. As a great father and grandfather, he took immense pride in nurturing his family and creating lasting memories filled with love and joy.

Santiago leaves behind a large and devoted family who will deeply feel his absence. He is survived by his loving wife, Maria Luisa Quintanilla; his sons, Santiago "Jimmy" Quintanilla, Jr. (Sheila), Lucas Quintanilla (Roxy Ocañas), David Quintanilla (Michelle), Santiago "Gordo" Quintanilla, Jr., Jason Quintanilla, Xavier Yanez, Issac Quintanilla, Armando Chavez, Cresencio "Chris" Salas, and Jesse Perez; and his daughters, Yvette Quintanilla Ozuna (Johnny) and Selena Quintanilla (Emilio Sanchez). Santiago was a proud patriarch to 35 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by his gentle guidance and unconditional love.

He is also survived by his siblings Jaime Guerrero, George Ibarra, Rosalba Garza, Graciela Franklin, and Leticia Herrera, who, alongside his children and grandchildren, will carry forward his legacy of compassion and humor.

Santiago’s life was touched by the memories of those family members who preceded him in death, including his father Clemente Quintanilla and mother Elena Guerrero, his sons Sebastian Quintanilla and Esteban Quintanilla, as well as his brothers Fabian Maldonado, Tony Maldonado, Javier Ibarra, Reynaldo Ibarra, and his sister Lucy Reyna.fAM

Famiy and friends are invited to honor Santiago’s memory at the Salinas Funeral Home of Weslaco - Chapel of Grace, located at 2929 W. Expressway 83, Weslaco, Texas 78599. A viewing will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, followed by a prayer service from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. These moments will provide family, friends, and all whose lives Santiago touched an opportunity to reflect on his remarkable spirit and to celebrate a life beautifully lived.

Santiago “Chato” Quintanilla’s kindness and warmth left an indelible mark on those around him. His humor, generosity, and boundless love for family and friends will be forever treasured in the hearts of all who knew him. As we say goodbye, we hold close the memories of his smile, his laughter, and the comfort of his presence—gifts that will remain with us always.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Salinas Funeral Home of Weslaco.