Judith Okundaye Santos, age 70, passed away on August 20, 2026.

Judith was born in Corozal, Puerto Rico, to Francisco Santos and Antonia Figueroa, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Corozal and Vega Alta, Puerto Rico—communities whose roots and traditions remained deeply connected to her throughout her life. She later made her home in Arlington, Texas, where she lived with her husband and children.

Judith was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, and beloved member of a large and close-knit family. She is survived by her husband, Osazwua John Okundaye; her children, Osazwua Okundaye, Gabriela Okundaye, and Brian Okundaye; and her siblings, Edith, Evergilio, Antonia, Ana, Hortensia, Angel, Juan, and Edwin. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Francisco and Rafael.

At the center of Judith’s life was her family. She loved deeply and unconditionally, without judgment or expectation. She had a remarkable ability to listen, understand, and acknowledge others with genuine empathy. To those who knew and loved her, Judith was a safe place—a person to whom you could come exactly as you were and know that you would be welcomed, heard, cared for, and loved.

Her warmth extended far beyond words and could often be felt around her table, where her love of cooking became another beautiful way of bringing people together and caring for those around her.

Judith’s Catholic faith was an important part of her life and was reflected in the love and compassion she showed to others. Her legacy will live on through the family she cherished, the countless memories created around her table, and, most especially, the unconditional love, acceptance, and sense of belonging she gave so freely.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Judith’s life will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Parish in Arlington, Texas. Cremation will follow.

At a later date, Judith’s cremated remains will be taken home to Puerto Rico, where she will be laid to rest beside her parents.

Although her absence leaves an immeasurable space in the lives of those who loved her, Judith leaves behind something enduring: the beautiful example of a life through which others knew they were truly loved.

May she rest in eternal peace, and may perpetual light shine upon her.