Santos Irizarry-Rodriguez, 88, of Hammonton passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023 with his loving family by his side. Born in Aibonito, Puerto Rico he was a long time Vineland resident prior to moving to Hammonton. Santos was a retired radio announcer for WMIZ 1270 AM and Radio Rey 1440 AM of Vineland. He formerly owned and operated the first Puerto Rican Restaurant, El Aiboniteño Restaurant in Vineland. He was a member of Acción Social Club and a member of Borinquen League. Santos was the founder and president of the Vineland Festival Puertorriqueño. Under his leadership Vineland Festival Puertorriqueño was recognized as a state level organization and opened up Landis Avenue to showcase the Puerto Rican culture to the people. Santos enjoyed going to the casino, watching the Phillies, and cooking for family and friends.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Ruth Heredia; his parents, Jose Irizarry and Digna Rodriguez; his sister, Iris Irizarry and his brother, Harry Alvarado. Santos is survived by his wife, Angelina Montanez; his three children, Angelina Detres (Matt); Nelita Lugo (William), Lillian Gonzalez (Antonio), his brothers, Pedro Alvarado; William Alvarado (Maria Irma); his sisters, Raquel Alvarado (Miguel); Rosa Irizarry and Ada Irizarry, his grandchildren, Arabella Analia Detres, Emily Lugo, Mark Lugo, Tony Gonzalez, Jr., Luis Gonzalez, Leslie A. Heredia and Vincent Heredia, Jr.

A viewing will be held Saturday, October 21, 2023, 10:00 am to 11:30 am in St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Parish, Church of St. Joseph's, 226 French Street, Hammonton, followed by a Catholic Mass.