Lerida Cruz

Born in Baire, Cuba in 1924, she worked as a teacher prior to immigrating to this country (1966) in search of a better life, not just for herself but for her family. Lela retired from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Pharmaceutical Co. after working many years. Through her courage, strength, and generosity, she opened doors of opportunity that changed the course of many lives.

Though she never had children of her own, she embraced her many nieces and nephews as if they were her sons and daughters.

Lela, was more than an aunt she was a guiding light, a mother figure, and a cherished grandmother figure. Her love was boundless, and her devotion to family was the heart of everything she did.

Predeceased by her loving husband Rafael Cruz (Fello), her parents (Jose de la Luz Sardina and Antolina Milan), and brothers, and sisters.

Lela is survived by her nieces and nephews who were closest to her, Miriam Sanchez, Oscar Sanchez, Isabel Sanchez, Alexander Sanchez, Stephanie Alonso, Marlon Alonso, Mirna Martín, Jorge Martín, Christine Parra, and Devin Parra.

Lela will be remembered for her wisdom, resilience, sense of humor and the kindness she shared with everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the family she nurtured, and the example she set of selflessness and love.

A visitation for Lerida will be held Wednesday, September 17, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at KROWICKI MCCRACKEN FUNERAL HOME, 2124 East Saint George Ave, Linden, NJ 07036. A funeral mass will take place Thursday, September 18, 2025 ,10:00 AM at St. Mary of the Assumption, 155 Washington Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202. A funeral will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 220 Mt Olivet Ave, Newark, NJ 07114.