Otilia Cruz

Otilia "Tita" Cruz, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, at the age of 79 in New York City after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on July 19, 1945, in the vibrant and lush landscapes of Puerto Rico, Tita brought the warmth of her homeland to everyone she touched throughout her rich and fulfilling life.
Tita's journey led her from the shores of her birthplace to the bustling streets of New York City, where she established her home and raised a beautiful family. She is survived by her devoted children, Carmen Denise Gomez, Margie Sanchez, Frankie Sanchez, Jeanette Sanchez, and Rigoberto Ruiz. Her legacy continues through her loving grandchildren, Destiny Gomez, Dominique Ruiz, Jimari Sanchez, Jimmy Sanchez, and Christian Sanchez, as well as her cherished great-grandchildren, Arianis Sanchez, Alenis Sanchez, Rey Yael Sanchez, and Yared Sanchez, who brought her immense joy and pride.
Before retiring, Tita dedicated over two decades of her life as a talented seamstress, a craft she approached with precision and artistry. Her work was not just a job but a testament to her meticulous nature and her ability to weave love into the very fabric of her creations. Tita's interests were as diverse and colorful as the tapestries she sewed. She had a passion for cooking, her dishes a flavorful homage to her Puerto Rican roots, and a talent for decorating, transforming spaces with her impeccable taste and flair. Tita found joy in shopping and traveling, exploring new places, and embracing the beauty of the world around her.
Her spiritual devotion was unwavering, as she attended church regularly, finding strength and solace in her faith. Friends and family will remember Tita for her loving nature, her faith-filled heart, and her friendly demeanor. She was the kind of person who greeted everyone with a smile, made friends easily, and maintained those connections with a genuine interest in people's lives.
Among her many admirable qualities, Tita's resilience stood out. She faced life's challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of her son Jimmy Sanchez, with grace and fortitude. Her ability to find light in the darkest of times was an inspiration to all who knew her. A quote that encapsulates Tita's approach to life comes from the esteemed writer, Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart." Tita lived by these words, embracing every experience with her whole heart and encouraging others to do the same.
As we bid farewell to Otilia "Tita" Cruz, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the indelible impact she made on the lives of those around her. Her spirit, characterized by love, faith, and friendship, will continue to live on in the memories of her family and friends. Tita's life story is one of joy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to those she loved. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded to cherish the simple pleasures, to nurture our relationships with kindness, and to face each day with the same strength and positivity that she exemplified.
We take comfort in knowing that Tita's journey continues in a place free from pain, and we imagine her surrounded by the beauty and peace she so richly deserves. Her departure leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever be woven into the fabric of our lives. Tita's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown during this difficult time. Her presence will be profoundly missed, but the essence of who she was will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.