Israel R Cruz

Born on October 24, 1953, in Harlingen, Texas, Israel was the son of Miguel Cruz and Maria Reyna Cruz. He was the seventh child in a family of eleven and grew up surrounded by the love and support of his large family.

Israel graduated from Harlingen High School in 1973, where he proudly played football for the Cardinals. He later attended Pan American University in Edinburg, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting in 1985.

At the age of sixteen, Israel met the love of his life, Sylvia, while they were both students at Coakley Junior High School. Sylvia was fourteen years old at the time, and what began as a young friendship blossomed into a remarkable partnership that lasted 56 years, including 50 years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with one daughter, Kristie Illiana, and three cherished grandchildren, Mason, Landon, and Everly.

Israel shared a special bond with his son-in-law, Jose Rene (JR) Rodriguez, who lovingly cared for him throughout his illness.

A man of deep faith, Israel was a devoted member of Christian Fellowship Center, where he actively participated in the Men’s Prayer Group. He was also dedicated to serving his community and proudly served several terms on the Harlingen Water Board.

Israel owned his own business, I&S Tax Management, for over 40 years. He helped many people with his tax expertise.

Israel had a lifelong love for animals and cared for many beloved dogs throughout his life. While he enjoyed spending time playing racquetball, his greatest joy was being with his grandchildren. He treasured every moment spent with them and with his many nieces and nephews, all of whom looked to him for guidance, mentorship, and wisdom.

Israel is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia Cruz; his daughter, Kristie (JR) Rodriguez; and his grandchildren, Mason, Landon, and Everly. He is also survived by his siblings, Ruth Torres, Hector Eluid Cruz (Angelica), Elizabeth Morris (Al), Joel Reyna Cruz (Patricia), Corina Penuelas (Jerry), Irma Capricciolo, Jaime Cruz (Diana), and Javier Cruz (Mary), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Miguel and Maria Reyna Cruz, and his brothers, Miguel Cruz and Josue Cruz.

Israel will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his devotion to family, his commitment to serving others, and the kindness and wisdom he generously shared with everyone he met. His presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Christian Fellowship Center, 901 TX-499 Loop, Harlingen, Texas 78550, with Pastor Barry Jackson officiating.