Obituary of Sonia Cruz

Sonia Cruz, age 71, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, September 6, 2018. 

A rebellious woman with a fiery personality, Sonia dedicated her life to her family. She was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico on February 24, 1947.  Sonia moved to the United States in the fall of 1960 and resided in Woodbine, NJ.  She later attended Millville High School.  Shortly after graduating she was a free spirit who enjoyed time with her sisters, going to lots of dances and working as it gave her a sense of independence.  She met her husband, Jose Hernandez, Sr., at a dance and they resided in Philadelphia where they owned and operated a coffee shop.   Sonia was a grassroots political activist in Philadelphia and was always committed to being a social activist.  She had a stellar work ethic and was employed for 30 years for the State of NJ as a Cottage Training Supervisor for the Vineland Developmental Center.  Jose and Sonia later moved to Franklinville, NJ where they raised their 2 children, Lea and Jose.  Nothing pleased Sonia more than spending time with her grandchildren, whether it be day trips together or just relaxing at home. In her free time she was a 4H Leader, PTA President, Team Mom and was on the Board of Directors of the Franklinville Library.   

Sonia is the devoted mother of Lea Hernandez- Vespe (Gerry DeAngelis) and Jose Hernandez (Vicky);  treasured grandmother of Andrew Mercado, Antonio Hernandez, Eriq Mercado, Dominic Vespe, Aleah Hernandez, Jordon Vespe, Joseph Hernandez and Elijah Hernandez;  loving sister of Anibal Cruz, Hilda Garcia, Frankie Cruz, Maria Cruz, Socorro Cruz, Horacio Cruz and the late Jose Cruz, Luis Alberto Cruz, Ana Weidmann and Jorge Cruz;  cherished aunt to many loving nieces and nephews.

Relatives and Friends are invited to Sonia's visitation on Saturday morning from 10AM-11AM at the Solid Rock Baptist Church, 420 South White Horse Pike, Berlin, NJ 08009.  Memorial service to follow at 11AM. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sonia's name to the Solid Rock Baptist Church, 420 South White Horse Pike, Berlin, NJ 08009. 

share the memories … share love … ShareLife® at www.mcgfuneral.com