Santa Gonzalez Padilla

September 3, 1945 - November 10, 2020

Santa Gonzalez Padilla, 75 years of age, of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at St. Luke's Miners Memorial in Coaldale. Born Monday, September 3, 1945 in Puerto Rico, she was the daughter of the late Margaro Gonzalez and the late Juna Padilla. She was also predeceased by her husband Salvador Santiago. Surviving are sons, Miguel A. Santiago and his companion, Lindsie Wirth of Summit Hill, Jose L. Santiago and his companion, Kathy Marcy of Coaldale; brother, Carlos Gonzalez and his wife, Maria of Allentown; sisters Elba, America, and Cecila Gonzalez; 5 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews also survive Santa. A graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Santa taught High School History in Puerto Rico for over 27 years. During her tenure she served as guidance counselor to many of her students. Her care and concern for those she taught transferred to the states evidenced by an encounter her son had with a local physician who fondly remembered his mom as his high school teacher in Puerto Rico. Many wondered why Santa choose education as her professions, for her hands, many termed as magical. She could turn a simple piece of paper into a beautiful flower, paint water colors with her fingers, design courageous flower arrangements. Santa even helped sew gowns for a former Miss Universe contestant. Pending arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550 Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com