La Cruz Theresa Erlinda De

Theresa Erlinda De La Cruz, 76, born in Santa Maria, CA, went to be with our Lord on August 31, 2018.

Tessie was a vivacious woman full of selfless love for her family and her community. She was a devout Catholic that attended Holy Spirit Church in Tempe every Sunday and loved her Savior Jesus Christ with all of her heart. She had a passion for sports, and never missed a ball game, loudly cheering on her husband, children and grandchildren. Her vibrant spirit and contagious smile brought life to every room. Tessie served The Phoenix Elementary #1 School District for 26 years as a school secretary. She volunteered at Andre House for over 15 years and spent time with Hospice patients for the past five years. She was also a philanthropist that donated to multiple charities. Her presence will be missed by many.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Chonita Lonergan, her father, Joe Nunez, her brothers, Joe Nunez and Timmy Nealis. Tessie will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 55 years, Julian De La Cruz, and her children Annette Nelson (KC) and Michael De La Cruz (Kristiana). She will also be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Thor (Ashley), Alexis, Daniella and Jacob, and her great grandson, Thorbeck as well as her brothers, Tommy Nunez (Mary Anne) and Steve Nealis, her sister Lollie Stayer and numerous nephews, nieces, friends and relatives.

A Viewing and Rosary in memory of Theresa will be held on Thursday, September 6, 2018 from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. with remembrances following, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Her Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 7, 2018 at 10:00 A.M. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1800 E. Libra Drive, Tempe. Interment will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street in Phoenix with a reception following back at Holy Spirit Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Companion Hospice, 1930 S. Alma School Rd #A103, Mesa, AZ 85210.