Felix Cruz Rivera

Celebrating the Life of Felix Cruz Rivera

April 20, 1938 – September 15, 2026

Felix Cruz Rivera, age 88 of Vineland, was born Felix Cruz Rivera on April 20, 1938, in Utuado, Puerto Rico, to Alfredo Cruz and Cecilia Rivera and lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, service, and love.

Felix was a devout Catholic who in his younger years was very involved as a Eucharistic Minister and in the Circle of Prayer (Círculo de Oración) at, what was back then, the Spanish Catholic Center, now Immaculate Heart of Mary. He was always willing to show his love for God by helping and praying for many people he encountered.

Felix loved to listen and sing to mariachi music. Vicente Fernandez was always on the playlist. He also enjoyed feeding the birds. It was his way of finding peace out in nature.

Felix is survived by his loving wife, Carmen Lydia (Santiago Matos), and his seven children, Felix Cruz, Jr. (Virginia), Carmen Martin (Chuck), Teresa Lopez (Fernando), Antonio Cruz (Katy), Roberto Cruz (Jaisynette), Norberto Cruz (Guadalupe), Francisco Cruz (Anastasiya).

He was blessed with eleven grandchildren: Gabrielle, Kevin, Alex, Gavin, Fernando Javier, Anthony, Joshua, Daniel, Robert, Jerath Lee, and Emma Lydia, Felix’s legacy continues through them and his seven great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to gather for his viewing on Monday, September 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a Mass at 12:00 PM at Divine Mercy Parish, 23 W. Chestnut Ave. Vineland. Following the Mass, Felix will be laid to rest in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.wbfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.