Family of JCPD Police Officer Noel Santiago

Jersey City Police Officer Noel Santiago Jr. lost his battle with cancer on March 24, 2023, at the young age of 43. He is missed dearly and survived by his wife, three small boys; ages 4, 2 and 1 year along with so many family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue to mention.

To know Noel was to love him. He built friendships with almost everyone who he came in contact with because of his kind spirit, generous nature, and witty banter. He always made himself available to anyone who needed help or a listening ear; he was a protector to all. For these reasons and so many others, being a police officer was Noel's calling. He had a way of connecting with people and driving them to do better and be better. I recently stumbled upon many honors and awards he had tucked safely away in our home. Of course, I asked why they were not on display and he humbly told me that, while he appreciated them, he did not do the work for the recognition.

That was Noel! He loved the diversity, fast pace, and action that his beloved Jersey City provided. He held on to the hope of returning to work all through his cancer battle; Noel was a proud brother in blue. Above all of these wonderful things, being a father and a family man was most important to Noel. I will never forget the day he found out we were pregnant with our first son. He was so happy and excited. He did not think children were in the cards for him but God had other plans. He knew the type of father Noel would be and he blessed him with 3 boys; all of whom adore their Daddy. He was their hero. He was an amazing father and husband; very hands-on and involved. He took every opportunity he could to spend time with his family and be present. When our youngest son was born, he was in the middle of cancer treatments and he told the doctors "You Better Reschedule My Appointments on the day my child is born, but I will be back the next day to continue to fight!" And he did. He fought his cancer with every ounce of will and strength he had and it was all so he could be there for his family.

He always stayed positive and held on to hope, when we received bad news he would not complain. He would say, "Ok Doc what can we do, because I need to be here for my family!"

His only ask in all this was to make sure his family was taken care of. He would be so proud of the outpouring of love and support we have received so far.

As his wife, I thank you from the bottom of my broken heart for your generosity in honoring Noel and helping me carry out his wishes for our family.