Awilda Ciuro

Awie dedicated herself to the United States Armed Forces for 30 years. She started her service in the U.S. Air Force as an enlisted member in the Medical Administrative Health Career, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. After achieving her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and master’s degree from St. Mary’s University, she was directly commissioned into the U.S. Air Force as an officer in the Health Services Administrator Corps. She held a variety of positions and was stationed at numerous Air Forces Bases around the world.

Awie had the distinct pleasure to command a unique group of individuals at the Medical Readiness Training Unit, USAF Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland AFB. Some of her other noteworthy military achievements were:

“Distinguished Graduate and Academic Achievement Graduate Awards” from NCO Leadership School.

“Distinguished Graduate and Honor Graduate” USAF Medical Service Corps Training Course.

“Executive Officer for Medical Inspection Team A” USAF Medical Inspection, Air Force Inspection Agency.

“Executive Officer to Surgeon General” United States Southern Command.

“Director Joint Regional Medical Plan Program” supporting Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region VI and VII, United States Northern Command.

Along with serving her country and raising two children, Awie loved spending time with family & friends. She enjoyed sharing her Puerto Rican heritage by preparing meals, especially on Thanksgiving and Christmas. When she found time, she enjoyed reading, gardening, crocheting, cooking and sewing.

After retiring, she became an active member of “Threads of Love Ministry,” a non-profit organization producing and distributing clothing and care items to premature babies living and deceased. Awie’s greatest joy was the time she spent with her granddaughter Sofie. Awie and Sofie were two peas in a tightly woven pod, never to be separated.

Awie is survived by her dedicated husband, Steven “Leo” Crouch, to whom she was married 38 years. She is also survived by her daughter Laura (Michael) Eyman, son Xavier (Lisa) Velarde, granddaughter Anasofia Eyman, Rick Crouch, Renae (Michael) Layer, and her sister Miriam Ciuro. Awie was preceded by her parents and brother Jose Ciuro.

Awie was confident in who she was, an independent woman, a force of nature, an excellent manager and leader, wife, mother, grandmother, and sister.

“You are free to be you again. Always look over each of us and continue to provide us with the strength you have taught us. We love you.”

The family would like to thank the Kirkwood Manor and Hope Hospice staff in New Braunfels, Texas, for taking care of Awie and making her comfortable in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

A committal service for Awilda will be held Friday, May 27, 2022 from 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery - Shelter #2, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209. Following the committal service will be a memorial reception from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Sunset North Funeral Home, 910 N Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, Texas 78232.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.SunsetNorthFuneralHome.com for the Ciuro family.