Lucille (Lopez) Cruz
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lucille (Lopez) Cruz on February 13, 2022 at Mission Terrace. Lucille was born on September 11, 1928 in Santa Ynez CA. The fourth child of Roman Lopez and Dorothy Grand.
Lucille married Richard R. Cruz on August 15, 1948 at Our Lady of Guadalupe church, They were married for 74 years. They were blessed with four children Eileen (deceased) Arleen, Audrey and Frank.
Lucille worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Campbell, a teacher aid at McKinley school and a waitress at the university club. When her first grandchild was born she decided to stay home and take care of him as well as her other grandchildren. She was always involved in her children and her grandchildren’s softball, t-ball and football games, and attended every parade that her grand-daughters were in. She was their biggest cheerleader. She was the greatest wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
Every chance she got she was heading to Laughlin with her best friend Esther Galvez. She loved going to the casino, to her niece Gladys Ortiz’s house for girls day, regular bingo parties, and dressing up for what ever the theme was. She loved to dance, listen to her music especially Engelbert Humperdinck, never missed a dodger game.
Lucille is survived by her husband Richard R. Cruz, daughters Arleen Cruz (Ray) Audrey Cruz son Frank Cruz (Hortensia) 5 grandchildren Eric Holguin (Crystal), Kristina and Mychal Gonzalez, Adriana De Alba (Sergio) Moses Cruz. 7 great grandchildren Nohea, Nalani, Keana Holguin, Noah and Loveah Cruz, Santiago and Sienna De Alba. Sister Louise Latini and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Lucille is preceded in death by her father Romon Lopez, mother Dorothy Grand, siblings Francis Lopez, Juanita Espinosa, daughter Eileen Cruz-Gonzalez, son in law Ray Gonzalez and her beloved dog Honey.
The family would like to thank Dr. Stanley McLain and staff, Monique Cordero, cousin Debbie Montoya for the help and care they gave our mother. Most of all our sister Audrey who helped care for mom as well.
Mom we will miss your smile, your laugh and all your love. Thank you for always being there for us. A memorial celebration is planned for Friday March 10, 2023 at 11:00am at Welch-Ryce chapel 15 East Sola St Santa Barbara CA, 93101.