Miriam "Uela" Santiago

Miriam "Uela" Santiago, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, in the early morning hours of July 18. Born on December 13, 1953, Miriam was the cherished daughter of Pedro Santiago and Cruz Nieves.
Miriam was one of five siblings and shared a lifelong bond with her sisters, Myrna Schwab and Heidi Santiago. She was predeceased by her brothers, Peter Santiago and Eric Santiago.

She was the devoted and loving wife of Louis "Louie" Leeman, with whom she shared a life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. Miriam was a proud and devoted mother to Erika Cashman, widow of the late Keith Cashman; Jerilyn Karam-Kozak and her husband, Nick Kozak, daughters from Miriam's late husband, Joseph Karam; and Richard Leeman and his wife, Amanda. She also embraced her role as a loving stepmother to Jessica Slater and her husband, Justin, and Alana Allik and her husband, William.
Known affectionately as "Uela," Miriam's greatest joy was her family. She was the proud grandmother of eight beloved granddaughters: Angelina Cashman, Cassidy Cashman, Ivy Allik, Hazel Allik, Jayleigh Slater, Zoe Kozak, Mia Leeman, and Gracie Leeman. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, creating memories they will carry with them forever.
Miriam also treasured her role as an aunt and shared close relationships with her nieces and nephews: Matthew Schwab, Andrew Schwab, Ann Hassett, Derek Burns, and Cassandra Santiago. Family was always at the center of her life, and she found joy in every gathering, celebration, and quiet moment spent together.

Miriam had a contagious laugh that could brighten any room and a warm, welcoming spirit that made everyone feel like family. She loved spending time with her husband, Louie, her children, grandchildren, extended family, and her many dear friends. Whether she was creating beautiful stained-glass artwork, quilting handmade treasures, or tending to her garden, Miriam poured love, creativity, and care into everything she did.

Her kindness, generosity, unwavering love, and joyful spirit touched countless lives. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created, the laughter she shared, and the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love will continue through the family she cherished and the many lives she touched.

Miriam's private funeral services are under the direction on the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, Fall River. Kindly click the Guest Book below to send the family Expressions of Sympathy,