Rogelio "Roy" de la Cruz

He was born on March 11, 1948, in Eagle Pass, Texas, to Ascencion de la Cruz and Manuela Rodriguez.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Patricia de la Cruz; his children, Sabrina Smith (Wayne), David de la Cruz, and Maria de la Cruz (Roger); his grandchildren, Celeste, Jacob, Roger Jr, Tristan, Sebastian, and Atreyu; his great grandchildren, Aidan and Jaxton; his siblings, Carlos de la Cruz (Concepción), Esther Treviño (Roberto), and Elizabeth Epperson; as well as extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He served our country in the Navy during the Vietnam War, then again as an officer in the Air Force. In 1987, he discovered his love for teaching. After 24 years, he retired to continue teaching on his terms and return to school to extend his knowledge and influence.

The family will receive guests from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary, 1101 McCullough Avenue. A procession will then depart the funeral home for a committal service beginning at 2:30 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road.

Roy will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.