Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Celia Cruz Obituary
Cruz, who was 77, died of a brain tumor. She had surgery for the ailment in December but her health faltered. She died at her home in Fort Lee, N.J., according to her publicist, Blanca Lasalle.
In the 1950s, Cruz became famous with the legendary Afro-Cuban group La Sonora Matancera. She left Cuba for the United States in 1960, and was credited with bringing salsa music to a broad audience.
Cruz, who recorded more than 70 albums and had more than a dozen Grammy nominations, won best salsa album for "La Negra Tiene Tumbao" at the last year's Latin Grammy Awrds. Among her other best-known recordings are "Yerberito Moreno" and "Que le Den Candela."
Called the "Queen of Salsa" and the "diva of Latin song," Cruz remained energetic late into her career. At last year's Latin Grammys, she showed up wearing a frothy blue-and-white headpiece and a tight red dress and gave a hip-shaking performance.
Cruz's alliance with fellow salsa star Tito Puente garnered her some of the biggest success in her career. In 1987, she was honored with a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame, and several years later, the city of Miami gave Calle Ocho, the main street of its Cuban community, the honorary name of Celia Cruz Way.
Cruz also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Smithsonian Institution and in 1994, President Clinton honored her with an award from the National Endowment of the Arts.
Copyright © 2003 The Associated Press
499 Entries
Ruben Gaytan
March 21, 2024
I love her and her music, what a powerful woman, God gift to us all.when I listen to her music it brings me back to my childhood. May God-bless her.
jean Colon gift
October 29, 2015
Celia we miss you .....no other salsera Como tu ly .. always in our hearts
Legend azucarrrr
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Nayibe Seliman
October 23, 2015
Always in our hearts . We love you Celia
Lisa Weiner
November 25, 2013
To Celia Cruz,
You were a very talented latin entertainer. I watched you sing in the movie Salsa and you were just fantastic. My prayers are with you Miss Cruz. Lisa Weiner.
LORI FARRAR
June 2, 2010
I SO MISS YOU, CELIA CRUZ. I WENT TO ONE OF YOUR CONCERTS IN LOS ANGELES AND EVERYONE DANCED THERE. YOUR PERFORMANCES WERE WONDERFUL TO WATCH, AND YOUR MUSIC WAS BETTER THAN WONDERFUL. YOU MADE EVERYONE DANCE WITH YOUR TUNES AND YOUR VOICE. TOO BAD YOU HAD TO LEAVE OUR WORLD, BUT NOW YOU ARE SINGING FOR THE LORD ALMIGHTY AND I BET YOUR MAKING GOD DANCE TOO. I LOVED ALL OF YOUR DRESSES YOU HAD ON WHEN YOU WERE ON STAGE. DIOS TE BENDIGA, CELIA CRUZ. YOU WERE A BLESSING TO US ALL. SORRY YOU HAD TO SUFFER SUCH A HORRIBLE SICKNESS. BUT NOW GOD HAS YOU BY HIS SIDE. SOMEDAY WE WILL ALL BE TOGETHER IN HEAVEN.
April 3, 2010
For Celia...the Cuban-born singer who went from singing in Havana nightclubs to become the "Queen of Salsa.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Kristina
July 19, 2004
Celia te quiero muchisimo y siempre seras la Guarachera de Cuba. Siempre viveras en los corazones del mundo. Viva Cuba y Viva la Reina de la Salsa!!!!!!
ENID DAVIS
July 17, 2004
I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN IN SUCH AWE OF MISS CRUZ SINCE I WAS A CHILD. I LOVED TO SEE HER DANCE TO THE BEAT OF THE SALSA MUSIC AND HOW SHE JUST OOZED LOVE AND EXCITEMENT FOR HER FANS AND AUDIENCE WHEREEVER SHE PERFORMED. ALSO I REALLY LOVED HER ON SESAME STREET.
CELIA, YOU WERE ONE OF THE GOOD ONES AND THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER YOU.
LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU,
Maria V Diaz
June 18, 2004
Celia: eres lo mejor que Cuba ha dado a este mundo. No hay otra como tu. Siempre me hicistes muy orgullosa de ser cubana. Que lastima que te tuviste que ir tan pronto!!
azzariah lowe
March 9, 2004
i like celia songs she was a great singer !
Marilyn Bohorquez
February 28, 2004
Celia. Siempre viviras en nuestros corazones, y tu musica seguira alegrando nuestras vidas a traves de muchas generaciones por venir.
MERCY GLATT
February 27, 2004
Dear Pedro - I will always remember our beautiful Celia, because she is someone unforgettable. I grew up dancing to her music and consider myself very lucky to have enjoyed her music since I can remember. She lives in all the hearts of so many Cubans and of so many others all over the world. Please take care of yourself, you know how much she loved you and cared for you. She will always be yours and our guardian angel. Physically she is gone; but spiritually she will always remain as the best gift God gave us. We truly are privileged to have been able to enjoy her music and her humanity all these years. With much love, Mercy Glatt
Jacqueline Rodriguez
February 26, 2004
Celia.......We still miss you as if it were the first day! You will forever remain in our hearts. You are the best and will never be replaced! Love You, Jacqueline and Charlotte
Juanita Luke
February 26, 2004
Celia, I grew up listening to your music. My father played your songs everyday and my sister and I danced with my father when you were with La Sonora Mantancera. I've seen you in Boston many times and danced to your music. I am 46 years old and I brought my son who is 27 years old now to see you in concert when you came to Charlotte. You were magnificent and we all danced until it was over. I was in Miami when I heard the news and I called my father long distance and cried like a big baby. You touched our hearts and I am proud and happy to have seen you in concert and grow up to your music. Te quiero!
Robin Gardet
September 17, 2003
Celia was an inspiration and will be dearley missed!
Raquel Herrera & Ralph Cabrera
September 16, 2003
Our biggest respect & sympathy to Pedro Knight & family. Between you two there was a love that can't be explained in words,a love so true & sincere. We love dancing to her music, it's a beat that can lift your spirit. "La Vida es un Carnaval" is an all time favorite, but her music will always remain in our hearts & soul. Your family is in our prayers. God Bless.
AZUCAR!!!!!!
Alex Rodriguez
August 13, 2003
"Tu voz se adentro en mi ser y la tengo presa
Tu voz que es tañir campanas al morir la tarde. . ."
Gracias por todo, Celia -- por darnos tu guaracha, tu voz único, tu amor, tu todo ser.
"Dios te bendiga mi bien tu gracia y tu ser que me hacen soñar. . ."
Como te extrañamos, Celia. Gracias por ponernos azucar en el café.
el hijo de Gisela,
Jacqueline RodriguezdelVillar Vayas
August 13, 2003
CELIA "THE ONE AND ONLY" Mi mas sentido pesame a el Sr. Pedro Knight y fmlia. Celia will live forever. I hear her music and still can not believe that she is no longer physically with us. I was fortunate to see her perform and it was an unforgettable experience. Your prescence will be greatly missed. You will always be remembered through your music. Celia will never be forgotten and her music will continue to pass from generation to generation. You are "One of a Kind" Thank you for bringing such joy into our lives. Pedro que dios te bendiga, te queremos. Cuidese por favor.
Jackie RodriguezdelVillar Vayas
Virginia Pascual
August 6, 2003
Celia-Una Cubana, artista, y persona ejemplar. El cielo ya esta alegre y de fiesta. Gracias por tu contribucion en la tierra.
Nadia Weller
July 24, 2003
It's a BIG loss for the Aruban people! She was a great singer and person. I'll always remember her songs and the way she used the perform them. And I'm very proud that she has recorded a song in our language (Papiamento). She will be in our heart and thoughts forever. La vida es un Carnaval and that's the way people should think about Life. I wanted to thank Celia for singing and performing that song. I'm sure that all the Angels are having Salsa lessons in Heaven. My deepest thoughts are with Pedro (her husband)! May God bless you and give you strenght to go on!! All my Love to you!! *!Que viva La Guarachera del Mundo!*
Yamelly Andujar
July 22, 2003
i am from dominician.Rep andCelia has brought us all together and has been such in insperation to all over the world and for me and for many latinos seimpre vivera
ADNERYS VAZQUEZ
July 22, 2003
MR. PEDRO KNIGHT
I AM A 33 YEAR OLD CUBAN THAT'S FEELING EXTREMELY SAD ABOUT CELIA'S DEPARTURE TO HEAVEN. I AM VERY PROUD OF THAT "NEGRA" COMO ELLA DECIA. SHE IS A SAMPLE TO FOLLOW AN ANGEL BEFORE SHE LEFT US AND AN ANGEL NOW IN HEAVEN. SHE WILL BE TAKING VERY GOOD CARE OF YOU. SHE ALWAYS DID AND SHE WILL CONTINUE DOING IT FROM HEAVEN. I LOVED AND LOVE HER VERY MUCH. SHE WILL CONTINUE TO BE WITH ME EVERY TIME I PLAY HER CD'S. I HAVE MANY OF THEM. MY SON THAT'S 10 YEARS OLD ALSO LISTENS TO HER MUSIC. PLEASE TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF. DO IT FOR US CELIAS FANS. BESIDES HER MUSIC HER WORDS SAID TO EVYERYBODY BESIDES ALL OF THE LOVE SHE GAVE TO THE WORLD , YOU ARE THE CLOSEST THING WE NOW HAVE LEFT FROM HER. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU GUYS, I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER CELIA, SHE WILL ALWAYS LIVE IN MY HEART. IF YOU EVER HAVE A CHANCE I WOULD LOVE TO HOLD YOUR HAND AND GIVE YOU A BIG HUG. I DON'T KNOW IF THAT WILL EVER BE POSSIBLE, I WISH IT WILL.
I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOUR NEGRITA AND SHE WILL ALWAYS LIVE IN MY HEART.
ADNERYS
(305) 480-8156
Gina Pinargote
July 22, 2003
I love Celia. She is truly a symbol of great significance in our hispanic community. I always wanted to see her perform and now I won't have a chance. I regret that I didn't go see her when she came to Toronto. However, we have her music and she will be forever in our hearts. Bye Celia and my condolences to her family.
Geraldine Melendez
July 22, 2003
I am a Puerto Rican from New York and I grew up listening to Celia Cruz. I remember seeing her in Puerto Rican Day parades as a child. She is definitely a big part of Puerto Rican culture, as well as other Latin American countries. My heart goes out to her family and her many fans and friends. May God bless her and keep her, till we meet again. !Dios te bendiga, querida Celia!
melissa Torres
July 22, 2003
I express my deepest condolences to the family and her husband pedro knight but she will continue to live in our hearts.We love celia so much,she has brought happiness into the latin comunity and we would never forget her.We love you and we now your up above shining on us.
Rosa y Paulo Velez
July 22, 2003
Pedro,
This is to let you know how much we will miss Celia, I have a lot of her records and I love her very much. and my whole family will miss her very much. Ten Fuerza y Fortaleza que desde el cielo Celia te cuidara.
Azuuucar!!!!!
BECKY VAZQUEZ
July 22, 2003
MI CELIA: NO PUEDEO DE VERDAD EXPRESAR LO QU SIENTO POR LA MUERTE DE LA GUARACHERA DEL MUNDO, POR QUE NO ERA SOLAMENTE DE NOSOTROS LOS CUBANOS, CUANDO OIA SU MUSICA PARA MI, LOS PROBLEMAS DEJABAN DE EXISTIR, TENIA ALGO ENVIDIABLE; CON SU MUSICA Y SU FUERTE VOZ, TE HACIA VER LA VIDA DIFERENTE, ALEGRE. QUE PERDIDA HEMOS TENIDO, PERO YA ESTA DESCANSANDO, GRACIAS A DIOS
CELIA, MI IDOLO, MI ESTRELLA, TE QUERRE SIEMPRE
BECKY
LINDA CASTILLO
July 22, 2003
I AM AN AMERICAN BORN AND RAISED IN YBOR CITY, FL WHERE SOME OF THE FIRST CUBAN'S WHO PUT TAMPA, FL ON THE MAP. I AM PROUD OF MY CUBAN HERITAGE FROM BOTH MOTHER AND FATHER AND I WAS RAISED WITH YOUR MUSIC CELIA. I HAVE ALWAYS FELT THAT YOU WERE A PART OF MY FAMILY. I NOW HAVE GRANDCHILDREN WHO LOVE YOUR MUSIC. I AM PROUD OF MY COUNTRY FOR CELEBRATING YOUR DEATH. YOU ALWAYS TOLD US NOT TO CRY UNFORTUNATELY SOME OF US COULD NOT KEEP THAT PROMISE. I ALWAYS PROMISED MY CUBAN GRANDMOTHER THAT I WILL NOT GO TO CUBA UNTIL IT IS FREE, I PRAY THAT I WILL ONE DAY BE ABLE TO GO WITH YOU. GOD BLESS YOU IN HEAVEN AND THANK YOU FOR BEING A PART OF MY LIFE,
LOVE YOU ALWAYS,
LINDA CASTILLO
Mauricio Bermúdez
July 21, 2003
Gracias por enseñarle al mundo a seguir sus sueños.
Jorge Héctor Villar
July 21, 2003
Desde Lima Peru: condolencias a Cuba y el mundo entero.Se ha ido fisicamente pero espiritualmente está presente.A Celia
Ileana Bustelo
July 21, 2003
You will be missed. The angels are lucky to have you; I know you will bring them as much joy as you brought us.
elsie cintron rosado
July 20, 2003
The tribute I just finished watching hosted by my sweet Marc Anthony and Gloria Estefan, was great, not since before September 11th have I enjoyed something so immensely, Celia, it's true that you were born in Cuba, but you were and always will be part of every Latin country of this world, especially Puerto Rico, God Bless You, and may your Dear Husband find some comfort to know that he is not alone in mourning you, the whole of the Latin Community and the World is by his side. A Z U C A R
Rhonda Robinson
July 20, 2003
In life, Ms.Celia Cruz was and will always be the undisputed Queen of Salsa. However, in death, she will always be remembered as the the Queen of our Hearts.
I. Diaz
July 20, 2003
I've spent a big part of the weekend reading about her and thinking about what her death has meant, especially to so many cubans in Miami, to the world, and to me.
When I first learned about her passing and the thousands who wanted to show their grief over the loss of her life in Miami, I couldn't help but think about how much for cubans this was-- aside for the fact that she was a terrific human being, performer and singer, and truly loved by the world, -- like losing Cuba all over again. Showing their support for her life and holding on to her memory is like holding on to a piece of the long-lost island. The Cuban dream of returning to a free Cuba has passed, and now, so has Celia. For many of us her passing has been a remembrance of our lives as exiles.
Life for me as a young girl in Cuba used to be a carnaval. Other than going to school and playing games with neighborhood friends I danced all day. It was my favorite pass time as it was for many cubans. I danced at school, I danced at home, and whenever I had a chance. I looked for every opportunity I had to find my male neighborhood friends who could dance, who were like family, to do a few steps, the cha cha cha, the mambo or salsa. Life in Cuba for me was simple. That will never come back, but it will be in my heart forever. And I suspect so will Celia for so many.
Irma and Steve Hernandez
July 20, 2003
We loved the music, we admired the
woman. This world loses ONE OF THE
GREAT ONES. Our condolences to
Celia Cruz and her family. Su musica
siempre vivira en nuestro corazones
Vaya con Dios, Guarachera Linda!!!
Cheryl Anne Measack
July 20, 2003
I am upset that our beloved Celia is no longer with us I have enjoyed her singing very much. Now she is with Tito Puente. Rest in peace.
Ligia cetina
July 20, 2003
Celia...I knew you knew...your eyes your smile...reflected your talent...the joy of life...chica I can see you when I close my eyes...full blast joy...Azucar forever...love you...now I will go to dance with you...I have your music on...!!!!!!!!!
OFELIA MENENDEZ
July 20, 2003
HOY EL CIELO ESTA DE FIESTA. YA LLEGO LA GUARACHERA ,YA LLEGO CON SU "TUMBAO" ,PARA TAMBIEN ALLI PONER "SAZON" Y LLENARLO CON SU "AZUCAAAAAR!"
NO TE OLVIDAREMOS. ERES UNA GRAN MUJER Y UNA GRAN CUBANA.ESTAMOS MUY ORGULLOZOS DE TI.
Jason Abreu
July 20, 2003
The entire world has lost a great legend. I for one, remember her great times at the Telemarathons of The League Against Cancer which I participated in. The enthusiam is what lead to the goals of each year. For me, I feel that I have lost a friend, a co-worker, and a family member.
Celia; you will always be in my heart and i will always remember you.
AZUCAR!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love,
Jason
ESTRELLA CRUZ
July 20, 2003
Pedro siempres estamos contigo al igual que con Celia. Ella sera la ESTRELLA que nunca se apagara. La que con su alegria y carisma conquisto el mundo como ahora lo hara en el cielo y su AZUCAR sera inolvidable.
Carrie Montano
July 20, 2003
I am certain that my Cuban coffee will taste just a tad bitter since our "azucar" has left us.
Irma Cruz
July 20, 2003
I am very sad for the death of ceila she will always be missed we love her a great deal.and to Pedro her be loved husband take care of your self .she is in good hands now and AZUCAR all the way to heaven
victor salazar
July 20, 2003
que dificil es estar en el mundo y dejar de ver fisicamente a seres tan queridos.
un hueco mas de gente tan valiosa para la humanidad como tu celia;pero,bueno se que ahora estas descansando de tus dolencias y que el señor te tiene a su lado y sabemos que lo estas alegrando con tu canto.
POR SIEMPRE CELIA¡
nouriya suarez
July 20, 2003
I'm am 25 years old, and it has always been my dream,and desire to meet three people that moved me, and inspired me; Tito Puente, Princess Diana, and Celia Cruz! Being a black latina, from Dominican and Cuban parents, Celia made me feel beautiful, special and proud to be a "morena" in our hispanic community. And although I've never been to Cuba, her music and words remind me when my grandfather used to tell me stories of Cuba when I was a little girl living in New Jersey. It seems like whenever I listen to Celia and my grandfather, who past away 5 years ago, I feel as though I lived in Cuba all of my life. My friends used to call me La Chiquita Celia", because of the way I danced,and my resemblance of her, I adopted that name with the biggest complinment, and proudness of being her protege and admirier. Celia, Te amo mucho y me haces falta para siempre en mi corazon. Muchas Gracias por su voz, su musica y por tu presencia aqui en nuestra mundo con su belleza y sabor que es muy Cubana! Y especial dios te bendiga y bendicion a Senor Pedro Knight y la familia en Estados Unidos y Cuba.
Celia es la ultima Reigna de Salsa, de Cuba y La Reigna de Corazon para siempre! La negra tiene tumbao-Azucar Negra-Guantanamera-Quimbara es Celia! Mi madrina eternal. I love you
JOSE Y NELSA DEVIVAR
July 20, 2003
CELIA TU FOTOGRAFIA ESTARA SIEMPRE-
EN EL RESTAURANT EL COLMAO....
DESDE DONDE ESTAS NOS VERAS Y
ESCUCHARAS TU MUSICA.VERDAD?
ESTO ES SIMPLEMENTE UN HASTA LUEGO.
PEDRO UN FUERTE ABRAZO DE HERMANOS.
Denise Ordoniez
July 20, 2003
Dearest family of Celia Cruz, I"m so sorry , I know what your going through the loss of a loved one specially to Breast Cancer she is very well loved and her memories will live on in everyones hearts both my parents use to watch her and listen to her but they are all in heaven listening to her sing that beatiful salsa music. Denise Ordoniez (Modesto Ca)
Delvis Fernández Levy
July 20, 2003
Se nos fue un pedacito de Cuba pero dejas un inmenso legado. Celia siempre te recordare cuando desde niño me deleitabas con esas cubanisimas canciones como "Siguaraya" y el "Yerberito".
horton family
July 20, 2003
que dios te tenga en su gloria Celia, dios te bendiga ,eres una estrella nueva en el cielo, mi mas sentido pesame a la familia
Arlene Garcia
July 20, 2003
Dear Celia
I remembered two years straight i participated in (la liga conta el cancer) it was fun being there with you and dancing right next to you. We even got to go in your trailer and you offered us candy Celia your a really great person and i will keep in memory that you are my romodel. love you lots.
Neysa Lorenzo
July 19, 2003
Celia, Tu siguiras viviendo en nosotros por siempre, tu musica y tu espiritu se llevara de generacion a generacion, como Cubana me siento orgullosa de ti y como todos los latinos americanos que te aman por el resto del mundo,descansa en paz mi Reina.
Tu fiel admiradora,
Neysa
Jesus Rosales
July 19, 2003
I am so proud to be from Cuba and grown up lisening to Celia here in the states(since 1967). She was an isperation to all of us. I am saden and will always have a deep apreciation for what she has contribute to our music...Lo Nuestro! You were a Blessing to all of us and we will miss you!
rita maginnis
July 19, 2003
celia cruz was an insperation to all-of all ages and nationalities-i was fortunate to meet celia in a press conference- i gave her a bouquet of roses and she gave me the biggest hug that i feel to this day she grabbed her husbands hand and made him hug me as well- by the way i was not part of the press -but she made me feel very special in the so lovely and friendly way she greeted me-god bless her and ty for all the years you made us happy with your music
Cynthia Marie Mendez
July 19, 2003
Damn Celia is so hard to believe ur gone but damn ur not ur put there with big pun and 2 pac and tio puente dancing and singing for them!! Celia u will always be in my heart and i will always love u and ur music! Celia VIVE!!! YES
Eva Ramos
July 19, 2003
Mi niñez, adolescencia y adultez transcurrió con tu música como algo habitual, por esa razón el que ahora hayas partido es difícil de asimilar. Pero queda tu música, el recuerdo de tu sonrisa, de tu humildad y don de gente, de tu amor por la vida, por tus raíces y por tu prójimo. Tu tienes que estar en la gloria, gritando azúcar. Dios te bendiga, Celia!!.
Alba Miqueo
July 19, 2003
Celia Cruz was an inspiration, not only to cubans, but to all hispanics around the world. She showed that with determination and will, everything and anything can be done. Not only did we loose the Queen of Salsa but we lost a true Legend in Celia Cruz. May God be with her and her family. And may her memory live with us and with future generations to come.
Teresa Ramos
July 19, 2003
Sr. Pedro Knight,
Mi mas sentido pesame por tan grande perdida de una gran mujer. Su companera, una mujer alegre, carinosa que siempre lucho por lo que tanto quizo y lo logro. Ahora usted debe ser fuerte y seguir luchando porque ella asi quiere que sea. Ella siempre va a estar con usted. Ella no se a ido. Ella estara siempre en el corazon de todos nosotros y de todos los paises del mundo. Siempre la recordaremos. Gracias Celia por darnos tanta musica bonita y tanta azucar!
Lindsay Morales
July 19, 2003
Nuestras condolencias va para Pedro Knight, familia y amigos de Celia Cruz. Siempre Celia Cruz estara en nuestros corazones, nunca olvidaremos a Celia Cruz. Que Dios la bendiga y la tenga en su santa gloria. Que descanse en paz, Celia Cruz.
De parte de la familia,
Morales
Ruben Estrada
July 19, 2003
Bueno, Celia Cruz es una señora de la musica latina, me apena bastante su partida de esta tierra, a mi pais vino en muchas oportunidades a brindarnos alegria a traves de su musica.
el apoyo sincero a su familia y la confianza en Dios por sobre todas las cosas. gracias Celia por todo!!!
Michael Silvera
July 19, 2003
A talented and great singer, who has given enjoyment to many all over the world. Will be remembered for ever.
Alan G
July 19, 2003
Celia usted es la razon porque aun existe la salsa. Usted es la salsa, el son, el sonido de Cuba. Con gracia, humilidad, y azuuuucar, ha llevao ese ritmo de Africa y la bella isla a nuestros corazones. Usted de verdad es la negra que tiene tumbao, y humildemente ofrezco mi respeto a la guarachera de Cuba. Que descanse en paz la Reina de La Salsa pa siempre.
Claire Ganas
July 19, 2003
MY HEART IS HEAVY WITH PROFOUND SADNESS THAT OUR BELOVED CELIA CRUZ IS NO LONGER WITH US. SHE WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US IN SPIRIT AND HER GREATNESS AND TALENT SHALL NEVER LEAVE US, FOR IT IS THROUGH HER SONGS THAT WE WILL FOREVER HAVE HER IN OUR HEARTS. SHE NOT ONLY WAS A WONDERFUL ENTERTAINER......SHE WAS A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING! SHE HAD A SWEET AND KIND SPIRIT AND HER LAUGHTER MADE US ALL HAPPY JUST TO SEE HER AND HEAR HER. SHE BROUGHT US JOY......SHE BROUGHT US LOVE.....AND MOST OF ALL SHE BROUGHT US INCREDIBLE TALENT THAT NO ONE ELSE HAS EVER COME CLOSE TO POSSESSING. WE ARE ALL BETTER SPIRITS FOR HAVING HER IN OUR LIVES. WE SHALL ALL MISS YOU TERRIBLY OUR BELOVED CELIA! MAY GOD GIVE HIS STRENGTH TO YOUR HUSBAND AND FAMILY TO CARRY THEM THROUGH THESE MOST DIFFICULT DAYS. MAY CELIA'S MEMORY BE ETERNAL......Claire in Atlanta
Keshia Tieuel
July 19, 2003
Celia you will be rememebered always because you were the greatest salsa singer ever
Juanita Luke
July 19, 2003
As a child I remember my sister and I dancing with my father to the beautiful music of Celia with Sonora Mantancera and Tito Puente. My father still has her albums and we listened to her songs on those albums a couple of months ago and it brought back so many memories. I saw Celia in concert so many times in Boston, and two years ago I treated my my husband and our 26 year old son to see Celia in concert in Charlotte, NC. She had the entire theatre dancing, crying and singing. I love you forever Celia....
Lucy Dominguez
July 19, 2003
Celia you will always be a star, legendy and star, in this world and in the beyond. Our children born in this land will always be part of what you stand for. I know that you has been recieved into God's hands with open hearts and the Caridad del Cobre will be by your side.
Abigail Hobson
July 19, 2003
I also speak for my family: We sincerely send our condolences to Celia's family and friends. She is so much of my young family's entertainment. Many times we clear our living room furniture so that we & our 10 yr old and 6 yr old twins can dance to a variety of latin music. Celia's songs are the highlight of our good times. She will be dearly missed. Ahora le va cantar al Salvador, nuestro Jesus Cristo; que te bendiga, Celia.
Celia Gonzalez
July 19, 2003
Recordandote hermana con mucho Amor y Carino de los buenos tiempos en la Corte Suprema de el Arte- con Jose Antonio Alonso nuestro maestro de musica. Que Dios te Bendiga... Hasta luego, por que no te decimos Adios!
Pedrito, que el Senor los acompane y les de paz a toda su familia. Recuerda que su corazon fue tuyo siempre. "Su cabezita de Algodon" Nosotros los cubanos vivimos orgullosos de Ustedes. "Celia y Tu"
"Nuestro Orgullo", "Nuestra Bandera Cubana" "Nuestra Cuba"
Que Dios te Bendiga Celia Cruz, Pedro y Familia.
John Matos
July 19, 2003
It was an Honor to have grown up with Celia's music. I will expecially remember listening to her music with my Marines on the the other side of the world in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. She will never be forgotten.
Semper Fidelis
GySgt Matos USMC
Jose Luis Navarro Almanza
July 19, 2003
Celia,
Siempre te recordare como una de las latinas mas sinceras del ambiente artisitico que llego a conquistar todos los rincones del mundo hispano que tanto te quiso. Dejaste un ejemplo que muchos otros seguiran pues solo asi se lograra que los latinoamericanos sigan siendo solo uno, sin banderas ni fronteras que lo separen de todos sus hermanos.
Descansa en paz REINA DE LA SALSA Y DE LOS LATINOAMERICANOS. VIVA CELIA CRUZ!
Hugo Mion
July 19, 2003
Que Dios te Bendiga Celia, Azucar.
ANA CRISTINA ALMEIDA MERINO
July 19, 2003
CELIA CRUZ , ERES GRANDE Y SIEMPRE LO SERAS , TU SONRISA Y TU AZUCAR QUEDARAN EN TODOS NUESTROS CORAZONES , UN MUNDO ENTERO TE LLORA , QUE TEREMOS CELIA , AZUCA¡¡¡¡¡¡
Sandra Gabriel
July 19, 2003
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Celia Cruz. I grew up her music and I felt she was a part of my family. I met her a few times in concert backstage. She was very warm and gracious. I will miss her very much. My deepest sympathy for her entire family and all those who loved her. She will be our angel singing in heaven.
God bless her soul. Thank you for giving her the gift of song and the joy to sing it for us all. Heaven will be a sweeter place now that she is there.
The Queen Of Salsa Forever!
MariaElena Pineiro
July 19, 2003
My most sincerest and deepest condolences to her husband and family. May you know that she sings now in Heaven. I was born in La Havana, and left in 1962. I have three daughters, a son, and two grandchildren. They all enjoy Our beloved Celia Cruz... and awaited this New Year with her famous song "El Yerberrito" Celia, you will always live in our Hearts and will always be remembered. You were our Cuba in exile. May God Bless You.
nelsy ofelia sanchez
July 19, 2003
Pusiste bien alto el nombre de nuestra patria con tu ejemplo de bondad, ternura y amor hacia todo el que te rodeo, te recordaremos siempre.
Margarita ortega
July 19, 2003
Fuiste un ejemplo de bondad, a todo ser viviente, te recordaremos siempre.
Julian Jimenez
July 19, 2003
I am Mexican American but did not know much of Celia's music. She still moved me with her energy and vitality, what an inspiration to all. Thank you Celia and God bless!
Albert Buendia
July 19, 2003
Celia,May our father God keep you always...con todo mi amor
ALBERT bUENDIA
Lourdes Calvo - Sardinas
July 18, 2003
Celia,
You and your music will surely be missed. I remember going to Calle Ocho, hearing you sing and watching every nationality dance to your Cuban Music. You sure are a legend.
Unfortunately, you passed on to heaven without visiting and seeing a free Cuban. May your heart and soul be looking over Cuba today.
You will surely be missed.
Juan Cantor
July 18, 2003
I first heard this magnificent Lady on David Byrne's "Rei Momo" album where she sang backup on "Loco de Amor". I hadn't been exposed to much Latin music, but so much had influenced much of the music I listened to. BUT IT WAS THAT VOICE!!! I HAD to have every record that voice appeared on. I was absolutely intoxicated with that voice! I have remained in this state all these years later and will continue to be til i die. To have the privilege to live in the Cuban community in my later life and to have known what this Lady's life was about is an incredible blessing. I love everything she stood for, the grace, the passion, the caring for others....and all who cared for her in turn. It will be one of my life's regrets that I never got to experience the thrill of seeing her perform live, but we have the tapes that i hope will continue to play on PBS and other stations, where no matter what era, that voice is forever young.
Rest peacefully beautiful Lady! You will always be in ALL our hearts and your golden voice will always sound in our ears.
Oscar Alessandro Ceballos de Fernández
July 18, 2003
For Celia and all her family:
Since yesterday I feel life is not the same and one empty place has appeared on my heart. The Celia from all latins all around the world has left for never come back. Me as millions of mexicans feel a big sadness in our hearts. But we know through the magic of the music she will live forever in our hearths.
God bless Celia and all her family.
Tony Cardenas
July 18, 2003
College in the 70's in Houston, far from our familiar Miami where my friends and I grew up, your music was the anchor to our culture. No home made arroz con frijoles but lots of AZUCAR. Thank you Celia for the great gift of joy and music you brought us then and continue to bring today.
Those of us that are privilaged to be touched by your talent will never forget you. R.I.P.
Maruchy Lachance
July 18, 2003
Celia Cruz is the Queen of Cuba and the best representative of the exiled community because she embodied the Cuban condition with grace, sacrifice and success.
A class act to the very end. A lady of dignity and enormous talent. We are fortunate to have her as our patron and now as our guardian.
Azucar!
JORGE LLORET
July 18, 2003
GRACIAS CELIA FOR TEACHING ME THE MEANING OF AZUCAR,FOR YOUR SALSA
YOUR MUSIC AND THE PRIVLEGE IT IS TO BE CUBAN BORN.WE WILL MISS YOU GREATLY BUT YOU WILL LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.
REST IN PEACE AND MAY GOD BE WITH YOU
JORGE
Laura Vianello Smithies
July 18, 2003
Celia:
Nos dejas un gran vacío. Eres de las cubanas luchadoras hasta el final. Perteneces a la generación que tanto admiramos y queremos por no rendirse. Paseando tu cubanía por el mundo entero " por si no llegabas...." Llegaras siempre... la Cuba de siempre.
Madeleine Acosta Squillante
July 18, 2003
My family has been blessed and privileged to enjoy Celia's music for four generations from my grandparents to our children, from Miami to New Jersey. At this time, we deeply mourn her passing, and offer our most heartfelt condolences to her husband and family.
In my childhood, I fondly remember my parents and relatives dancing to Celia's music. We still enjoy her music to this day. She always brought us joy and hope through her music.
My mother met Celia once during the Calle Ocho festival. She was a delight- gracious, loving and unforgettable. A woman of humility for one so famous throughout the world.
I was born in Havana and emigrated to the US in 1967 at the age of two years. I am currently living in Rhode Island with my husband, an Italian-American. And even he loves Celia's music. She transcends all cultural barriers, Hispanic and otherwise.
Celia was the pride and joy of all Cubans, and beloved by all Hispanic cultures...a legend in her own time.
How fortunate and blessed are we to have had this jewel in our midst...an irreplacable treasure...a great Cuban woman. May she enjoy plenty of "azucaaa" in heaven.
Mercedes Chirino-Glatt
July 18, 2003
My deepest condolences to the family of the most wonderful and talented Cuban that ever lived! I feel as though I have lost a close relative. My fond memories of Celia go back to my babyhood in Cuba when my Mom would turn on the radio and I would dance in my play pen to the fantastic songs and sounds of Celia! Rest in peace Celia, we will always love you. I'm just sorry I was never privileged to meet you in person. Mercy Chirino-Glatt
Susan E. DeFiglio
July 18, 2003
Celia Cruz will always be the one and only, the greatest ever.
Thank you so much Celia for your passion, for your art, for your style.
God rest your soul.
MARYCEL MAIRENA
July 18, 2003
I am so happy to have latin blood in my body. My blood becomes agitated, and I forget about all troubles when I hear latin music, when I dance to latin music. I am a salsa freak, but I dance to any good rithm too, and the best thing is that I do not really care if I am not the best dancer in the room. I just enjoy dancing so much...
Celia made people's blood agitated, she irradiated good energy, happiness, she showed humbleness, modesty. She not only entertained four generations already, but she also gave to the world a great taste of what latin music is about.
I personally have a story to tell regarding her music. I was working as a tour guide in Sri Lanka, a beautiful island south of India, and I spend my birthday there about 7 years ago. One of the youngest clients I worked for asked me if I happened to have any great latin music with me that night, and of course I did. She invited our group to go to the club downstairs and asked Sri Lankan people if we could celebrate my birthday with very latin good music, they all said it was fine. I played a Celia Cruz's Cd and almost everyone present started dancing with a rather strange style but with all the joy in the world to her music... This happened almost in the end of the world, and this was not a concert.... Of course that my birthday turned to be a salsa dance class, and I and everyone else had so much fun!
There are salsa clubs in so many countries in the world, and one can be very surprised how well some people learn to dance to this great music and to other latin rithms as well.
I think that we all should follow her example of appreciating the good in others rather than critizicing them. She was hardworking, and she was able to reach peace even when her heart cried for her homeland. I think latin people should be more united, she has gave us the opportunity, let's not waste it. She belongs to not only Cuba, but to the whole world. We all should feel lucky that we lived when she was alive and when she could contagiate us with her great humanity and rithms. She will carry on with her music, the next genrations will adore her too.
Marycel Mairena, Nicaraguan
claudia caceres
July 18, 2003
With Deepest Sympathy and affection
Love always
claudia
LEVIS SOTOMAYOR
July 18, 2003
IT WAS A HEART BREAKING MOMENT WHEN MY FAVORITE SALSA SINGER DIES....I JUST WANT TO SAY IS THAT I LOVE U CELIA AND U WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART...AND PROBABLY RIGHT NOW IN HEAVEN UR SINGING AND HAVEING A PARTY..I LOVE U!
raul bonilla
July 18, 2003
celia,
i will truly miss u alot, i remember i made a school project not so long ago and in it it said you where my grandmother.
now u have gone to a better place where no one suffers , i know the angels will be waiting for you while playing the tambores and saying "azucar" there you will reunite with your mom who you looked up to so much and by her will be all the other spanish legends that we have lost.
Daisy Alonso
July 18, 2003
Sr. Pedro Knight:
Le ofresco a usted y a la familia Cruz mi mas sincero pesame. Cuando era soltera, fui a una despedida de fin de ano y ayi estaba Celia presentandose. Nunca se me va a olvidar ese dia, a fallecido una gran estrella, y tambien un gran ser humano. Debe de estar en el cielo cantando con mis seres queridos. Que Dios te bendiga.
Sinceramente.
Daisy Alonso Y Familia
TANIA
July 18, 2003
CELIA I GREW UP LISTENING TO YOUR MUSIC AND DANCING TO IT AS A CHILD. YOU WERE A BEAUTIFUL PERSON. YOU WILL LIVE IN OUR LIVES FOREVER. AND I KNOW YOUR STILL SINGING IN HEAVEN
William Ramos
July 18, 2003
Celia Cruz, "The Queen of Salsa", reigned over a mighty kingdom of salsa singers and bands from across Latin-America. With her trademark Azucar! - she managed to sweeten the pot for those artists that walked in her footsteps for so many years. Puerto Ricans in the island and on the US mainland claim Celia as one of our own because she gave so much of herself to our country and our culture. Her salsa partnerships with Puerto Rican Greats Tito Puente, Willie Colon, Ray Barreto, Cheo Feliciano and most recently La India and Marc Anthony among others, were a personification of style, class and above all, the celebration of our Latino/African roots. After seeing Celia so many times in my life in Miami, I'm happy that I attended a concert of hers here in Washington, DC. Latinos in DC were never more united than when she brought her "Azucar" to our Nation's Capitol. Let us all continue to spread her sweetness as one community.
carmen perez-smith
July 18, 2003
Celia,
You are my Sugarmama forever!!!! Que dios te bendiga para siempre. Estares viva en nuestros corazones
Y en el alma de la musica latina. Te vamos a prometer que Cuba sera Libre muy pronto, los gritos de alegria de los cubanos se sentiran
en el cielo y cuando miremos asia riba, vamos a ver tu sonrisa que
tanto extranamos...Que descanses en paz......carmen perez smith
WANDY TORRES
July 18, 2003
EL MAS SINCERO PESAME A LAS FAMILIAS KNIGHT Y CRUZ. CELIA FUE TODA UNA DAMA. GRACIAS A DIOS TUVE LA OPORTUNIDAD DE VERLA EN CONCIERTO Y NO HABRA OTRA QUE PUEDA CANTAR Y ANIMAR A UN PUBLICO COMO LO HIZO ELLA. SIEMPRE LA RECORDAREMOS. CABECITA DE ALGODON, SABRAS QUE ELLA NUNCA DEJARA DE CUIDARTE. TU FUISTES UN CABALLERO, SIEMPRE A SU LADO, ASI QUE ELLA SIEMPRE SERA TU ANGEL DE LA GUARDA.
UN BESO BIEN GRANDE. LOS PUERTORRIQUENOS LOS QUEREMOS COMO SI FUERAN DE NUESTRA ISLA.
QUE DIOS LOS BENDIGA
Showing 1 - 100 of 499 results
Make a Donation
in Celia Cruz's name
How to support Celia's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Celia Cruz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored