Crucita Rivera

Born on May 3, 1938, Crucita came from humble beginnings in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, where she grew up in a family of six children with both of her parents. Throughout her life, she carried herself with determination and courage, setting an example through her strength and perseverance. She raised two children on her own, showing them each day what true strength looked like.

Education was an important part of her life and accomplishments. She earned a Bachelor of Science from Adelphi University and went on to receive a Master of Science from Central Connecticut University. She brought that knowledge and commitment into a career of service, working for 18 years as a Social Worker in the state of Connecticut. In that role, she was known as a dedicated and hard worker who advocated for misplaced foster care children. Her passion and drive to defend and protect the children she served remained her main priority and stood at the center of her professional life.

Crucita also found joy in the simple pleasures that filled her days. She loved to read and to work on scramble puzzles. She enjoyed watching cooking channels and experimenting in the kitchen, where her curiosity and enthusiasm could be expressed in new dishes and ideas. She also had a special soft spot for her canine companion, Baby, who held a cherished place in her life.

She will be remembered by her beloved children, Maria Magdalena Rivera of Florida and John Angelo Cruz Jr. of Bloomfield, Connecticut; her daughter-in-law, Mary Cruz of Bloomfield, Connecticut; her grandsons, Daniel Cruz and family, and Aaron Peter Cruz and family; and her siblings, Ana Rivera of North Carolina and Isidoro Rivera Jr. of Santiago, Dominican Republic. She was also a great grandmother to Cecilia Cruz, Charlotte Cruz and Maya Cruz.

She was preceded in death by her father, Isodoro Rivera; her mother, Gerarda Diaz; and her sisters, Carmen Rivera, Irma Rivera, Bienvenida Rivera, and Luz Eneida Rivera.

Crucita will be remembered for the life she built through hard work, education, devotion to her children, and steadfast service to others. Her example remains in the lives of those who knew her and in the many children she worked to protect.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.