William R Cruz

Reverend William Ruben Cruz-Ginorio, 96, of Riverview, FL, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, May 31, 2025. William was born in San German, Puerto Rico on July 31, 1928. The tenth of twelve children. William received his B.A. in history from the University of Puerto Rico, followed by a Masters of Divinity from Evangelical Seminary of Puerto Rico. He was stationed in Puerto Rico while serving in the Army during the years of the Korean War. He later served as a chaplain of the VA Hospital in Rio Piedras/San Juan, PR.

William was married to Dora Margarita Ayala-Cuervos on October 22, 1952. Their Christian ministry together began in Puerto Rico by founding Iglesia Presbiteriana San Pablo. He then co-pastored two churches in New Jersey. For over four decades, “Pastor Cruz” and “Hermana Dora” faithfully and tirelessly served the physical and spiritual needs of migrant farmworker communities in the FL Hillsborough County area. These include pastoring Beth-El Mission in Ruskin, founding Good Samaritan Mission in Wimauma,

and The Lord’s Lighthouse Ministry in Ruskin, FL.

William is survived by children Doreen, Eva, Mayda, Bill, Raul and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews, and nieces. He is preceded in death by his wife Dora (Apr 29, 2024), daughter Laura (Jan 5, 2025), seven brothers, and four sisters.

A celebration of life service will be held on July 26, 2:00 PM at Good Samaritan Mission, located at 14920 Balm Wimauma Rd, Wimauma, FL.

William will be interred next to his beloved wife of 71 years at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, FL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Calvary Church Community Cupboard, one of William and Dora’s longtime partners in ministry to those in need (www.calvaryalive.org).