On September 13, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., the Ukiah community lost one of its brightest lights — Rhonda De Los Santos, a new-aged saint whose heart and compassion changed countless lives.
For 28 incredible years, Rhonda dedicated her life to Plowshares, where she did far more than serve meals — she served hope. To those in need, she offered not only food but love, dignity and the warmth of true human connection. Her greatest gift was the way she made people feel seen. She lived by the belief that no one should ever be judged for their struggles, only helped through them. Her words were simple but powerful: “How can I help you?”
Rhonda’s life was a living testament to compassion, humility and strength. She believed her greatest accomplishments were not her own, but those of her children. As she once said, “If I have to be judged, let me be judged by the greatness of my children.”
Born and raised in Mendocino County, Rhonda attended high school in Covelo, Miranda and Ukiah. Among her siblings, she was lovingly known as “the baby” — the one who never got in trouble, though her mischievous smile suggested otherwise.
Family was the center of Rhonda’s world. She shared 50 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Raul “Roy” De Los Santos, her partner through every joy and every challenge. She was a constant presence at every game, match and event — the loudest cheer, the warmest hug and the proudest smile.
Her love extended far beyond her home; she became a mother figure to neighborhood kids and anyone who needed guidance, warmth or a safe place to land. To know Rhonda was to feel loved, protected and understood. She had the perfect balance of softness and strength, love and discipline — a rare and beautiful combination.
Rhonda is survived by her husband Raul “Roy” De Los Santos and their loving children and spouses: Coreena Christensen, Kevin Christensen, Christine De Los Santos, Raul “Junior” De Los Santos, Sadie De Los Santos, Donavan De Los Santos, Joline De Los Santos, and Samantha De Los Santos.
She was the proud grandmother of 14 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Rhonda is now in Heaven, reunited with her beloved mother and father, Pauline and Ed Masterson, her cherished sister, Sandy Anderson, and her precious granddaughter, Aria De Los Santos.
Rhonda asked for no donations to any charity. Her only request was this: “Tell everyone to be kind and take care of the people around you, so we can make the world a better place.”
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 1346 South State St., Ukiah.
If you ever had the privilege of meeting Rhonda, you knew you were loved, safe and seen. Her legacy will live on in every life she lifted, every heart she healed and every act of compassion she inspired.