Richard L. Santiago, 46 of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on June 4, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.  Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of Rachel Santiago (late Gene Colton).

Richard was a self-employed contractor who operated Santiago's Home Improvement in the Niagara Falls area for over 20 years. He loved billiards, and had been an avid pool player since the early age of 9 years old. Richard was well known for being the absolute best pool player in the City of Niagara Falls. Aside from billiards, Richard enjoyed camping, poker, and playing knock with his family.

Richard was a great role model and found much joy in teaching his son how to do home improvements. Just before Richard's passing, "Little Richie" remodeled an entire bathroom! Richard also loved trips to the casino with his daughter whom he was very close to. His absolute favorite thing of all was dining out with his family and spending quality time with his two-year-old grandson "JJ" who has recently learned how to talk. A few weeks prior to his Papa's passing "JJ" would say "is Papa okay"? At only 2 years old that little boy knew his Papa was becoming very sick.

In addition to his mother, Richard is survived by his former wife and best friend, Rea Santiago, his children, Justina Marie Santiago (Jamal Humphrey) and Richie L. Santiago, Jr, grandson Jamal "JJ" Humphrey Jr, granddaughter to be Kiara J. Humphrey, grandmother Ruth Santiago (late Louis Santiago); sister, Betty J Colton; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday June 7th from 3 - 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY, 14304, where funeral services will be held at 7 PM.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.