William F. "Bill" De Santos

William F. De Santos, known affectionately as Bill/Billy by his loved ones, passed away on April 19, 2025, at the age of 85, in the same city where his story began, Corpus Christi, Texas. A man known for his wit, generosity, and intelligence, Bill's vibrant spirit and kind nature touched all who knew him.
Having entered this world on November 29, 1939, in Corpus Christi, Bill was a true Texan at heart. Son to the late Vicente and Cruz De Santos, he grew up with the Gulf breeze and the warmth of a tight-knit community. Bill left footprints of his memories across the very sands of his childhood when he attended Flour Bluff High School and later received his diploma from Roy Miller High School in 1959.
Bill's path took a turn towards service and duty when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, becoming part of the esteemed 3rd Recon Battalion, 3rd Marine Division. As a Marine, he demonstrated exceptional commitment and fortitude from 1959 to 1963, ideals that he would carry with him long after his time in service. He was a patriot through and through, a facet of his personality that earned him the respect of his peers and community. Oorah!!
After serving his country, Bill's devotion to his community continued at the United States Postal Service. From 1965 until his retirement in 1992, he dedicated himself to serving his community as a Letter Carrier and Customer Account Representative. His work ethic was exemplary, and his position allowed him to form countless friendships and share his innate sense of humor with others.
After retirement from the Postal Service, Bill enjoyed time working at Charms Amusement for 15 years where he created great memories with countless customers and coworkers.
Bill's life was as full in learning as it was in service. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Corpus Christi State University in 1983, which not only reflected his continuous growth mindset but also his deep understanding of the human experience.
The center of Bill's world was undeniably his family. His unwavering love for his wife of 57 years, Refugia "Ruth" De Santos, set the foundation of their loving home. Bill's heart was tested with the loss of his son Vincent Edward but remained strong and supportive for his beloved sons, David, with his wife Virginia, and Billy, with his wife Patti. His grandchildren, Amanda, Vincent, David Jr., and Vanessa, were the joyful echoes of his legacy and the bright continuance of the De Santos lineage. Bill was also abundantly blessed with many extended family members that he enjoyed creating and sharing memories with.
Bill's enthusiastic fervor for life was mirrored in his myriad of interests. From watching his beloved 5-time Super Bowl Champion Dallas Cowboys, to the thrill of casino trips with Ruth and family. His artistic eye found meticulous yet warm expression through arts and crafts, and cherished laughs and conversations over coffee with close friends at Whataburger.
As Ernest Hemingway once wrote, "Every man's life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another." Bill's life details distinguished him as a genuine, compassionate, and loving individual.
Although William "Bill" De Santos is no longer with us, his stories, hearty laughter, and the benevolent impact of his actions will forever resonate with those he left behind. He was a man who knew how to make the most of every moment and who could brighten the darkest of days with his humor. His legacy is nothing short of inspiring, having lived a life filled with purpose and love.
William F. De Santos will be dearly missed by a community that was better for his presence, a family that was blessed by his love, and a world that was brighter for his life. As we bid farewell to Bill, we are reminded that his larger-than-life persona and tender heart are not gone; they are imprinted on the memory of time, a beautiful testament of a life well-lived.
"Semper Fi"