Marina M Rivera's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Marina M. Rivera
With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life filled with faith, love, and devotion, we announce the passing of Marina Milagros Rivera, who entered into the loving presence of the Lord at the age of 89 on July 4, 2026.
Born in Hatillo, Puerto Rico on June 18, 1937 she migrated to the states at the age of 17. She lived in Newark, NJ, and in 1990 moved to Naples, Florida. Marina lived her life with quiet strength, unwavering dignity, and a steadfast Catholic faith that guided her through every joy and challenge. She was stoic by nature, meeting life’s hardships with grace, resilience, and an unshakable trust in God. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she found comfort and purpose in prayer and in the promise of eternal life.
Marina found joy in the simple things. She loved to sew and crochet, creating beautiful pieces with patience and care, each stitch reflecting the love she poured into everything she did. She also spent countless peaceful hours working on intricate diamond paintings, a hobby that showcased her remarkable patience, attention to detail, and quiet creativity.
Of all her accomplishments, Marina was proudest of her family. They were the center of her world and the greatest blessing of her life. She gave her love freely, offered wisdom through her example, and demonstrated what it meant to live with integrity, faith, and selfless devotion. Her strength became the foundation upon which generations of her family have built their own lives.
Marina leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, kindness, and unconditional love that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though she was not one to seek recognition or attention, her life spoke volumes. She taught that true strength is often found in quiet courage, faithful service, and unwavering love for one’s family.
She is survived by daughters, Milagros Santiago Joyce (Len), Agnes Suarez, Idelisa Herman (Michael) and son, Noel Santiago (Alicia). Grandchildren, Erica Guillama, Jennifer Santiago, Michael Santiago (Ashley), Jay Torres (Jasmine), Athena and Hector A. Santiago, Christian and Andrew Suarez, Jessica and Nicolas Santiago, Arianna and Ethan Herman. And great grandchildren, Janessa and Jeremy Torres, Brianna and Lucas Guillama and Lilly Rose Santiago plus many other family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hector M. Santiago, Sr and son, Hector M. Santiago, Jr. (Lourdes).
While our hearts mourn her absence, we take comfort in knowing that Marina’s earthly journey has ended and that she now rests in the eternal peace of Christ, reunited with those who have gone before her. Her love, her faith, and her example will remain with us always.
A visitation will be held at Hennessey Heights Funeral Home, 232 Kipp Ave., Hasbrouck Heights, NJ on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 9am to 11am. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11am at Corpus Christi Church, 218 Washington Place, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. Internment to follow immediately after Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. Special gratitude to the nurses and staff at Florida Cancer Specialists and the staff at NCH, especially Dr. Adrian Zamora & nurse Briana, Dr. Sheldon Brownstein, Dr. K Suryawala and Isabel Hamro, APRN. May our “Mamita,” Marina M. Rivera rest in the peace of God’s everlasting embrace.
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