Magdalena "Nena" Santillan born on May 27, 1938, passed away peacefully at home on February 23, 2022, at the age of 83.

She is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, Trinidad; daughter Myrna (Armando); 3 grandchildren Robert (Sabrina), Erik and Erika (Mark); 4 great-grandchildren Nathaniel, Nicole, Adalynn and Navy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nena, as most called her, met the love of her life in 1953 in Monterrey, Mexico where she was raised. With Trinidad living in Texas, they fell in love over love letters and frequent visits to Mexico. After 2 years, on August 14, 1955, they were married, and she moved to the United States. They built their life together and raised their daughter in the home they brought back in 1962. The love and admiration they shared for each other was always present throughout the years. From holding hands when they went out somewhere to poking fun of each other for a good laugh, Nena and Trine's life together was a true love story, one that most people never get to experience.

Nena spent her life devoted to her family, they brought so much joy to her life. Her daughter was her world, taking her everywhere and teaching her all that she could. The only thing she loved more than being a mother was being a grandmother. She absolutely loved her 4 grandchildren. Her dream was to be blessed enough to see them grow up. Not only did she get to see that happen, but she also got to enjoy time with 3 great-grandchildren before she passed. She also had multiple nieces and nephews who she loved so much, always treating them like they were her own. She always looked forward to the holidays, knowing that everyone would gather at her house. Christmas consisted of Nena praying the Rosary, adoring baby Jesus and singing Christmas hymns with all the family, making it her favorite time of the year. These past two years were hard for her, she missed being able to do these things. She missed those family moments.

Nena loved her hobbies. She loved to sew, there were always little sewing projects on her table. If she would find a garment she liked but It was too big she would take it apart and fix it to fit her. Crafting was also a favorite pastime for her. She would love to make keepsakes for her friends at the Guadalupe Senior Center, where she loved volunteering at. From pins to place mats she always tried to make something for every holiday. Nena also loved her flowers. Her porch was always filled with beautiful plants that she took such pride in.

Despite all the hardships she had in her life, Magdalena was a strong, beautiful, kind woman. You opened your arms and home to all. Our family was blessed to have you for 83 years. We are sad that we did not get more time with you, but  we know that you were met at heaven's gates by your loved ones, your grandmother Tomasita; mother Maria; brother Julio; grandson Joshua; sisters-in-law Tome, Tana and Chove, and many other family members and friends that passed. Nena/Mami/Momo/Tia, you will be dearly missed, and we will always cherish the memories we created with you. You will always be a part of us and will forever be in our hearts. Until we meet again. We love you.