Jane de la Cruz

Jane De La Cruz, lovingly known as “Mimi” to family and friends, was born on August 29, 1934, in Gonzales, Texas, to Vicente and Louisa Arredondo. She was the third of four sisters, alongside Annie, Lupe, and Becky.

Mimi began her education at Riverside Elementary School and attended Gonzales Junior High School through the seventh grade. After her family moved to Houston, she continued her studies at Edison Junior High School for eighth and ninth grades, followed by Sam Houston High School for tenth and eleventh grades. She graduated with honors from Reagan High School in 1953.

Growing up during the Great Depression, Mimi often reflected on her childhood with gratitude, saying, “We didn’t have much growing up, but we were happy.” Although her family had few toys, she fondly remembered spending time outdoors playing. One particularly vivid memory was the day she heard church bells ringing and people cheering to celebrate the end of World War II. Her mother had sent her to the post office to collect the mail, and upon hearing the wonderful news, Mimi ran home to share it with her parents. These memories remained dear to her throughout her life. Mimi had a lifelong love of learning and a special interest in reading and history.

After graduating from high school, Mimi helped support her family by working at a movie theater and an import company. In 1955, she married Raymond De La Cruz, and together they welcomed three children: Cynthia De La Cruz Jimenez, Nelda De La Cruz Kortz, and James De La Cruz.

Mimi devoted many years of her professional life to Antone’s Import Co., where she served as an administrator for Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Antone until her retirement in 2002.

Following her divorce in 1976, Mimi’s children remained the center of her world. She treasured her family above all else and took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of her children. She always looked forward to their visits and cherished the time they spent together.

Mimi’s life was a beautiful testament to love, perseverance, humility, and compassion. She believed in the importance of hard work, family, treating others with kindness and respect, and appreciating the simple blessings of everyday life. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and when her health permitted, she was an active and devoted member of Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church. She faithfully attended Sunday Mass and participated in several church ministries, including The Classics, the Ladies Auxiliary, and Piecemakers. She also enjoyed baking for church bake sales and participating in Game Day activities.

Outside of her church and family life, Mimi found joy in gardening, crafting, listening to music, playing games—especially Bingo—and indulging in her favorite sweets. She loved watching football and gathering with friends for good food, conversation, and fellowship. Whether spending time with loved ones, serving her church community, or enjoying life’s simple pleasures, Mimi brought warmth and kindness to those around her.

Jane was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Vicente and Louisa Arredondo; her sisters, Annie Reyes, Lupe Valdivia, and Rebecca Mott; and her son-in-law, John Louis Jimenez.

She is lovingly remembered by her three children: Cynthia Jimenez; James Raymond De La Cruz and his wife, Patricia; and Nelda Kortz.

Mimi’s legacy continues through her eight grandchildren: Nathan De La Cruz and his wife, Rosie; Andrew De La Cruz; Jacob De La Cruz and his wife, Samantha; David De La Cruz; Caleb De La Cruz; Amanda Jimenez-Martin and her husband, Jacob; Leslie Ann Kortz; and Rebeca Lynn Kortz.

She also leaves behind seven cherished great-grandchildren: Violet De La Cruz, Taylor De La Cruz, Charlotte De La Cruz, Daisy De La Cruz, Nicholas De La Cruz, Callum De La Cruz, and Kora Jane Jimenez-Martin, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Jane De La Cruz will be remembered for her generous heart, gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to her family and friends. Her life was filled with love, service, and gratitude, and the lessons she shared will continue to live on through the many lives she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the love she gave will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made online to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston at archgh.org. Please select the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF), choose Christ the Redeemer – Houston under Parish Information, and enter “In memory of Jane De La Cruz” in the comments section.