James K. Santos, of Rockford departed this earthly life November 4, 2025. He was born December 17, 1964 in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of James Taylor and Patty Riley. James lived in Rockford since 1984 coming from Saginaw. He was a self-employed Steeple Jack 12 years. James attended school in Saginaw, later to receive his GED and attended Phoenix University.

James leaves to cherish many loving memories, two sons, James (little James) Santos and James (Booboo) Santos; two daughters, Shantiquia Holliman and Tierra Hansel; 7 grandchildren, Demarion, Zyiona, Ymeric, Kasim, Tahonnie, Tysir and Piper; three sisters, Sharon (Eric) Walker, Jeniffer (Aloysius)  Hasenfratz and Veronica Taylor; three brothers, George (Jenny) Roach and William (Carmille) Hill; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Patty A. Hill  and James Taylor; and brother Rafeal Santos.

Services will be held 12:00 noon Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Avenue. Burial in Cedar Bluff Cemetery. Visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.