Santiago G. Chapa, Sr.

Santiago G. Chapa Sr., a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on March 3, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on November 23, 1937, in Alice, where he spent his entire life.

His journey began as the son of Roman and Eulalia Chapa Sr., who preceded him in death, along with his daughter, Diana Chapa; grandson, Isaiah Joslin; and his siblings, Roman (Lile) Chapa Jr., Emma (Jose) Moreida, Esperanza Lopez, Santos Chapa, and Ruben Chapa.

Left to cherish Santiago’s memories are his wife of 65 years, Estela M. Chapa; their children, Nora Arnold, Santiago (Maricela) Chapa Jr., Belinda (Jose) Franco Jr., and Suzanne (Ruben) Joslin; and his siblings, Jose (Esmeralda) Chapa and Evita Martinez. His life was further enriched by the joy of his grandchildren, Miguel Angel, Iris, Amanda, Joey, Clarissa, Nathan, Isiah, Michaela, Haley, Melanie, Eulalia, Emmi, Evie, and Marcia; 24 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and compassion. Santiago received his education at Nayer Elementary School and William Adams Junior High School. He retired from the City of Alice after working over 25 years in the Land Field. Santiago was a loving husband and family man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was known for his love of dance, especially to the rhythms of Tejano music. He found pleasure and laughter watching old movies starring Cantinflas, Tin-Tan, and Capulina, and he never missed an episode of The Domingo Pena Show on Sunday mornings. Santiago enjoyed barbequing with family and friends. Easter was a special day to rejoice and celebrate, as the entire family gathered in fellowship. It’s also when Santiago could be heard joyfully calling out to each grandchild by the nickname he gave them. Santiago's appearance was always neat and complete with suspenders, a hat, and his Stacy Adams shoes.

His faith and trust in God are the most important values he instilled in his family. He was always grateful, thankful and full of gratitude for God’s Love and generosity to him and his family. Throughout his life he attended both St. Joseph Catholic Church and Our Lady Of Guadalupe Catholic Church where he worshiped and praised God, full of faith and love of God. Santiago Chapa Sr., will be remembered not only for his contributions to the community of Alice, Texas, but also for his life’s testament to the enduring strength of family and simple joy of living a life filled with love and laughter. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and loved him.

Santiago’s family will receive condolences on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Treviño Funeral Home Alice, 120 E. Front St., from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM; with Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM. A Funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 9:30 AM on Thursday, March 6, 2025, for Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at New Collins Cemetery.

Honoring Santiago as pallbearers are Ruben Joslin, Nathan Joslin, Jose Franco Jr., Jose Franco III, Eulalia Franco, and Israel Beltran. Honorary pallbearer will be Santiago Chapa Jr.

To leave your condolences for the family of Santiago G. Chapa Sr., share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.