Obituary of Miriam Mercado

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Luz “Miriam” Mercado. Miriam peacefully entered into the presence of our Lord and Savior, surrounded by her family, on July 23, 2024, in Vineland, NJ. 

Born on November 5, 1951 in Utuado, Puerto Rico, to Milagros Caraballo and Gumercindo Acosta.  Miriam was a devoted and loving mother to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  She cherished her brothers and sisters and a host of nephews and nieces. Miriam dedicated her life to her family and loved ones and served God wholeheartedly.

Miriam was a prominent figure in the Vineland community, known for her unwavering commitment to helping others, particularly the Hispanic community. Her 25 years of service at the Cumberland County Board of Social Services left a lasting impression. She was a dedicated member of La Iglesia Pentecostal Puerta De Refugio, serving as a secretary and later graduating from the Alpha and Omega Bible Institute as a beloved instructor.

Loved by many, as someone you can count on when a friend was needed. She touched the lives of everyone she met by having a loving spirit and a beautiful personality.  Her loyalty, dedication and passion will forever be cherished by all but most importantly her grandchildren.

Miriam is survived by her children, Maria Santiago, Heriberto Santiago (Liza), Luis Santiago (Laura), Angel Santiago and Chad Santiago (Melissa); grandchildren, Orlando, Jeremy, Angel Jr, Tiffany, Luis Jr, Arianna, Juliana, Jaelinn, Gavin, Caleb, Liam, Emily, Ben, Jaliyah and Ava; 18 great-grandchildren, her loving sisters; Carmen Acosta, Lucy Borrero, Yvette Fox and Maria Acosta.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Gumercindo Acosta and Milagros Caraballo; her brothers, Moises, Efrain and Gumercindo Jr., and her daughter, Angelica Maria Cruz.

Family and friends will be received on Friday evening, July 26, 2024 from 6pm to 8pm and on Saturday morning, July 27, 2024 from 10am to 11am with funeral services to follow at 11am at Chestnut Assembly of God Church, 2554 E. Chestnut Ave., Vineland.  Burial will follow in Siloam Cemetery, Vineland.