Obituary: Santana Irene Grant

Santana Irene Grant, beloved daughter, sister, mother, and wife passed away unexpectedly at the age of 37 on March 27, 2025, in Yreka, the town where she was born and raised. She left a legacy of love, joy, and a spirit that could never be forgotten.

Born on December 1, 1987, Santana was the first daughter of Rodney and Michelle Grant and the eldest sister of her five siblings; Rodney Grant Jr.,Celena Robison, Alauna Grant, Evauna Grant, and Austin Grant. She was a proud sister, daughter and wife, deeply embedded in the lives of her family and friends.

Santana was a caring and devoted mother of four children. She was known for her big heart, boundless energy, and made everyone feel like family. She had a way of bringing people together, always ready to help, support, and uplift those around her. At 23, Santana welcomed her first daughter, Gail Wilson, followed by her second daughter, Lavina Wilson, at 24. At 25, she had her first son, Jacob Thunder Grant, and at 33 in 2020, she gave birth to her youngest son, Kason Tower. That same year, she married Alex Tower, with whom she shared countless cherished memories. They commemorated their marriage by skydiving—a bold and symbolic act representing the eagle’s spirit when choosing a lifelong partner. It perfectly embodied her wild, fearless nature and spontaneous soul.

She was a free spirit, always on the move, always seeking out new experiences. She loved being outdoors, embracing adventure, and spending time with her family and children. Whether it was doing arts and crafts, drawing, or making home videos, she found joy in creativity. She cherished the quiet, meaningful moments beading with her aunties and grandmother—an art that not only strengthened her family bonds but also connected her to her Karuk culture. She also enjoyed dressing up, doing her nails, and indulging in her love for makeup, embodying a fun and vibrant energy that those around her admired.

She rarely liked to stay home, preferring instead to be out in the world, supporting her children with the sports they played, spending time with friends, or simply embracing the adventure of life. She loved music, horror movies, and caring for animals—no matter whose they were. Even her love for spiders was just another example of her appreciation for all living things. Her playful and sometimes “crazy” nature was one of the things that made her so beloved. She wasn’t afraid to go to great lengths for her loved ones, always putting others before herself.

Santana’s life was full of love and laughter, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on through her children, family, and friends, who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

A funeral service for Santana will be held at 10am on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Girdner Funeral Chapel in Yreka, with burial to follow in Fort Jones Cemetery.