Bertha L. Cruz

Bertha Licea Cruz, born on February 2, 1951, in Chapman Ranch, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas, surrounded by her beloved family in her home of 43 years. A devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved friend, Bertha’s life reflected a remarkable blend of love, hard work, and culinary passion.

For over 30 years, Bertha dedicated her career to Retama Manor North as a dietary cook. Her journey began when her brother, Alfredo Licea, Sr., called her one day and invited her into the culinary world shortly after her arrival from Carrollton, Texas. She accepted without hesitation, and from that moment on, her exceptional work ethic and talent flourished. Bertha's enormous love for cooking was evident in her ability to cater for large gatherings, capable of cooking for a thousand if the occasion called for it. She often prepared meals for special events, offering her services to friends and loved ones without charge, showcasing her passion for nurturing others through food.

Throughout her life, Bertha embodied five essential words: Family, Flowers, Food, Fun, and Football—a testament to her vibrant personality and the joys she embraced. She was a loyal supporter of the Dallas Cowboys often exclaiming, “How about them Cowboys?” Her charm, wit, and warmth will be dearly missed.

In addition to her culinary accomplishments, Bertha was an unwavering pillar of support for her children, Alejandro "Alex" Cruz, Rosa "Rose" LaCour, and Olga "Babygirl" Cruz. She selflessly prioritized their needs above her own, always going above and beyond as a mother. Bertha played a vital role in the lives of her four grandchildren—Samantha Garcia, Jamie LaCour, Tommie J. LaCour, and Christopher "CJ" Cruz—and took immense joy in her great-grandson, Jonah Samuel Garcia. She also held a special place in her heart for a young granddaughter she adored and looked forward to seeing.

Bertha is survived by her husband, Alejandro Cruz, Sr., with whom she remained united in spirit throughout their separation of over 45 years, exemplifying a deep and abiding love. In addition to her children, Bertha leaves behind a loving extended family, including her siblings, Alfedo Licea, Jr. (Dalia), Humberto "Skunky" Licea, Olga Hinojosa (Raymond), Irma Torres, Rachel Licea, and Manuela "Mela" Galindo (Frank), along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfredo Licea, Sr. and Maria Ruiz Licea; her brothers, Hector Licea, Sr., Enrique Licea, and David Licea, Sr.; her sister, Beatrice Calvo; her brothers-in-law, Frank Calvo and Michael Torres, Sr.; her nephew, Abel Hinojosa, Sr.; and her granddaughter, Victoria “Tori” Benavidez.

Bertha Licea Cruz’s strength, resilience, and unwavering love will be cherished by all who knew her. Her spirit will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched, and she will forever hold a place in the hearts of family and friends alike.

Bertha’s family will receive condolences on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Treviño Funeral Home, 3006 Niagara St., from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM. Services will conclude in the chapel.

To leave your condolences for the family of Bertha Licea Cruz, share your memories, or visit her tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.