Lainie Lee Rideout-Cruz

May 7, 1974 – September 5, 2026

Lainie Lee Rideout Cruz, 52, a longtime resident of Hesperia, California, passed away on September 5, 2026. She was born on May 7, 1974, in Salem, Massachusetts, to Darryl and Rita Rideout.

Lainie was smart, incredibly witty, sassy, and never afraid to speak her mind. She had a compassionate heart and believed strongly in advocating for human rights and standing up for those she felt could not always speak for themselves. That compassion was also evident in the unwavering care and support she gave to her brother-in-law, Robert, who became an important part of her life and family.

A lifelong animal lover, Lainie treated animals with tremendous kindness and compassion. Among the many animals she loved over the years, her feisty Chihuahua, Butch, and her big, loving white kitty, Ben, held especially treasured places in her heart.

Lainie also loved collecting crystals and had an appreciation for beautiful purses and fine perfumes—a little sparkle and luxury suited her personality perfectly.

Lainie married the love of her life, Edward “Eddie” Cruz, in 2010, and they shared 16 years of marriage together. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a strong testimony of the gospel, with her faith remaining an important part of her life.

Lainie is survived by her husband, Eddie Cruz; her mother, Rita Rideout; her sisters, Tammy Rideout, Lauren Rideout-Stephens (Mark), and Lacey Rideout-Page (Brandon); her brother-in-law, Robert Cruz; her beautiful nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, Alyson, Scott, Matthew, Ryan and Jacob, and many other family members, friends, and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her father, Daryl Rideout and precious niece Tabitha.

Lainie will be remembered for her compassion, quick wit, unmistakable sass, strong convictions, love of animals, and devotion to the people and causes she held dear. She was uniquely and unapologetically herself, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her.