Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Rafaela Cruz Obituary
Publish in a newspaper
In 1948, Rafaela made the bold move from Puerto Rico to New York, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage and an indomitable work ethic. For many years, she dedicated her skills to the garment industry as a seamstress, contributing to the fabric of the city both literally and metaphorically. Her association with the International Ladies Garment Workers Union reflected her belief in fair labor practices and her solidarity with her fellow workers.
Rafaela's zest for life was infectious. She was an avid cook, weaving love into every dish she prepared. Her passion for dance was legendary; she was often described as the life of the party, a title she wore with pride and joy. Rafaela's strong Catholic faith was a cornerstone in her life, guiding her through times of challenge and celebration alike.
Survivors: Left to cherish Rafaela's memory are her devoted daughter, Martha Merced; her grandchildren, Maria Wilder and her husband Raymond, Edwin Cora and his wife Denice, Tom Cora and his wife Michele, Johnny Garcia, Jr., and Michele Garcia, who will miss their grandmother's warmth and guidance. Rafaela joins her siblings, father and mother, Candida Vazquez, in eternal rest.
Services: A memorial service will be held at 12 Noon on Friday November 15, 2024 at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018, where the family will receive relatives and friends from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. Her burial will be at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be shared at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Matos Giveback, 1928 Woodbury Road Bethlehem, PA 18017.
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
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.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Make a Donation
in Rafaela Cruz's name
People and places connected with Rafaela
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Rafaela'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 Rafaela 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
