Sally Cruz, a beloved wife, mother, Nana, and woman of deep Catholic faith, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 17, 1936, Sally leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, faith, strength, and devotion that will continue to live on through all those who knew and loved her.

Sally is survived by her three sons, Steve Cruz, Mario Cruz, and Ralph Cruz; her daughter, Monica Pena-Gonzalez; her 14 grandchildren; and her many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren and her sister Dora Alvarez.

Sally had a long and meaningful career as a teacher, touching the lives of countless students and becoming a mother and Nana figure to many along the way. She had a deep passion for serving her community and sharing her Catholic faith with others. She faithfully served on many committees at her beloved church, St. Margaret Mary, where she dedicated much of her time and heart to her faith and community. In her spare time, one of her favorite things to do was make rosaries, creating each one with love and devotion.

To many, she was lovingly known as Nana Sally—the tough, strong Nana who always made sure everyone was taken care of. Although she was known for her strength and toughness, she also had a special way of making everyone feel welcomed, loved, and at home. You always knew that if you needed anything, you could go to Nana Sally’s house. Her home was always open, and you could count on her to have something to eat ready the moment you walked through the door. Her love was often shown through the simple things: a warm meal, a listening ear, a helping hand, and knowing that you always had a place with her.

Sally’s strength, faith, generosity, and unconditional love made an everlasting impression on her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of the many people she loved and the lives she touched.

The family would like to sincerely thank everyone for their love, support, thoughts, and prayers during this difficult time. Your kindness and compassion have brought comfort to our family and will always be deeply appreciated. While saying goodbye to Sally is incredibly difficult, we find comfort in knowing that she is no longer suffering and is now at peace, resting in the loving arms of God. We will carry her love, her faith, and her memory in our hearts forever.

May she rest in eternal peace.