Obituary of Cruz Castro-Garcia

Cruz Castro-Garcia, 78, lovingly nicknamed “Crucita,”, 78 of Maybrook, NY, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2024, surrounded by her devoted family. Born on May 2, 1946, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, she was the cherished daughter of the late Maria Fonseca and Etanislao Castro. Cruz was the heart of a large and close-knit family, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew her. Cruz is survived by her three devoted children, Luis, Brenda, and Marilyn, who lovingly cared for her in her final years. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom adored their "Abuela" for her endless love, wisdom, and the joy she brought to their lives. She extended that same love and care to her children’s spouses, embracing them as her own and nurturing those special relationships. Cruz was a pillar of strength and comfort to her family, always ready with a kind word, a listening ear, or a plate of her incredible cooking. One of the most endearing traits Cruz was known for was her love of beautifully polished nails. She took great pride in her long, elegant nails, which she carefully maintained and polished every day. Her nails were always a source of conversation and admiration, and Cruz loved to show them off, often sporting a new color or design that reflected her vibrant personality. It was just another way she expressed her sense of style and love for life. Her family roots run deep, as she came from a large and loving family, with many siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews who cherished her dearly. She was known for being the sweetest person you could ever meet, someone who radiated warmth and compassion in every interaction. Cruz’s home was always open, and her kitchen was often filled with the delicious aromas of traditional Puerto Rican dishes, bringing her family together around her table. In her later years, Cruz’s health declined due to dementia, a difficult journey that she faced with grace and resilience. Despite the challenges, her spirit remained strong, and she was lovingly cared for by her family, who ensured she passed in the comfort and peace of her own home. Cruz Castro-Garcia will be remembered for her selflessness, her generous heart, and the profound love she shared with everyone she met. Her legacy of love and family will live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and those she welcomed into her family through marriage. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who were blessed to know her. "Extrañaremos su sonrisa y su energía. Que descanse en la luz eterna." A memorial visitation will be held on Friday October 25, 2024 from 4-7 PM at the Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc. 39 Orchard St. Walden, NY 12586 Memorial Contributions in Cruz's name to the Town of Montgomery Food Pantry 2200 Rte 208 Montgomery, NY 12549 Arrangements are entrusted to the Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc. 39 Orchard St. Walden, NY 12586. (845) 778-3811 gridleyhoran.com