Santiago Vega

It’s with bittersweet emotions that the Vega family announces the passing of Santiago Vega on February 26, 2024, at the venerable age of 99. He passed away peacefully at home. Santiago was born on December 30, 1924, in Tamboril, Santiago Province—Dominican Republic.

Santiago was a pillar of resilience, drive, ambition, and entrepreneurship. Whatever he did, he was all in. He was the proud owner of Jhirette Grocery, a beloved bodega in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Known for never taking a day off, he (along with his wife Milagros) would work from 7 AM to 10 PM closing, seven days a week, and poured his hard work, sweat, and tears into making that bodega flourish.

Santiago had an immense passion for his family, hard work, spirituality, and his home country, the Dominican Republic. He often traveled between New York and DR because he believed in staying grounded in his roots.

One of his children’s most cherished memories is his surprise visit to the Dominican Republic while he was still establishing the grocery store. The sight of him standing there with his distinctive black jacket and mustache was that of a hero returning home from a joyous reunion engraved in their memory banks forever.

His hobbies were simple yet fulfilling. He was an avid Yankees fan and loved watching WWE, especially matches with Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior, a hobby he’s passed down to several children and grandchildren. 

Santiago's remarkable legacy lives on through his cherished family. He leaves behind a loving tapestry of lives touched by his spirit: his children, Joe Vega, Jhesky Vega, Lenin Vega, John Vega, Jhirette Vega, Elsa Buchalski, Praxida (Niña) Vega, Antonia Vega-Gomez, Selbia DeLeon, Elia Vega, Ana Vega, Olmedo Vega, Milagros Vega, Bilma Vega, Magaliz Collado, Aralis Reyes, Domingo Nunez, and Claribel Hinojosa. Each of them carries a piece of his enduring legacy, reflecting the vast love and lessons he shared.

 His weekly domino games were legendary, filled with spirited competition, lots of laughter, good food, and triumphant shouts of “Capicu” as he outplayed his friends.

Santiago will be remembered for his witty banter, entrepreneurial spirit, love of family, and hard work ethic. More than his passions, his lasting impact was in the example he set for his children about the importance of respect, hard work, and dedication to your dreams. He instilled and inspired that same dedication to all who knew him.

“Capicu”—a declaration of victory from his beloved game of dominoes is a fitting tribute to a life well-lived. Rest in peace, Santiago. Your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.  

The family thanks everyone for their thoughts and prayers and sincerely appreciates your support during this difficult time.

If you want to send flowers please use the link below thank you 

https://www.midtown-florist.com/ and apply the promo code: vega 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Santiago Vega, please visit our floral store.