Edward "Smokey" Santai, Jr.

Edward “Smokey” Santai, Jr.
December 29, 2025
 
Edward Santai, Jr., 68, of Centre St., Pottsville, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025 in Geisinger Medical Center, Danville; holding the hand of his loving daughter. 

Born on June 20, 1957 in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Edward Sr. and Ethel Sharp Santai.

He was a 1975 graduate of Pottsville High School and attended Reading Area Community College. 

Edward was a Heavy Equipment Operator for PennDot for many years. He was a Past Worthy President and life member of the Grand Aerie Fraternal Order of the Eagles. 

Preceding him in death were two sons, Nikolai and Edward C. Santai; a step-son, Todd Bradley; and two sisters, Janice Torola and Emmagene Wagner.

Surviving are a daughter, Ethel Mae and husband Zachary J. Rohland of Pine Grove; a grandson, Zachary S. Rohland; two sisters, Sharon Ehlinger Bradley of Deerfield Beach, FL, Theresa and husband Glenn Gaffney of Pine Grove; two brothers, Bertrum and wife Diane Ehlinger of Minersville, Matthew and wife Linda Santai of Pottsville; goddaughter Missy Santai; many nieces and nephews, cousins; and his significant other, Judith Drake of Pottsville.

Smokey will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and gentle but protective nature. He was a friend to all, devoted to his family, and known for his love of karaoke, Philly sports, and Pottsville history. 

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at the H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove with Father George Kochuparambil officiating.  There will be a viewing on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. at the Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville.

You may send condolences online at www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com

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