Mary Lou Cruz

Mary Lou Cruz, born on November 19, 1946, in the charming town of Lawton, Oklahoma, has left this earthly domain to join her beloved husband, Richard J. Cruz, and her cherished parents, Mary and Warner Bointy. On May 30, 2025, she departed this life peacefully and gracefully, surrounded by the loving embraces of her family, a fitting reflection of her nurturing spirit.

A devoted Catholic, Mary carried her faith with grace and dignity, intertwining it with her cherished traditional Native American traditions. Throughout her life, she made it her mission to uplift those around her, embodying a profound sense of love and care that resonated deeply within her community. Her career was not merely a job; it was a vocation infused with passion, as she delighted in helping others, particularly children, who held a special place in her heart. Known as one of the most dependable souls that her community could rely upon, Mary endeared herself to many, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.

Her character was illuminated by her outgoing, loving, and caring nature. Mary often infused her conversations with heartfelt sentiments, frequently reminding those she adored to "Take care of yourself," while gently guiding the younger ones with a playful admonition to "Behave!” It was this mix of tenderness and warmth that endeared her to countless friends and family.

In her leisure, Mary found joy in a myriad of activities. She was an avid player of games, delighting in engaging matches of dominos and word puzzles that sparked both laughter and camaraderie. Additionally, her sewing prowess was remarkable, whether hemming pants or indulging in the art of quilting during her younger years, she always approached her craftsmanship with passion and dedication. A lover of literature, her evenings were often spent immersed in the pages of mystery novels, thrilling westerns, or gripping true crime stories, with the Investigation Discovery (ID) channel frequently providing her nightly entertainment.

Mary Lou Cruz leaves behind a legacy of kindness and resilience, cherished by her loving daughter, Danielle Cruz and her husband Leonard Atencio; her granddaughter, Janielle Martinez and her husband Octavio Paniagua; her great-granddaughter, Alexi Wynonna; and a constellation of nieces, nephews, relatives, and close friends, all of whom will carry forward the examples she set and the love she shared.

May her spirit soar free, and may her memory be a blessing to all who were privileged to know her.