Rubia E. Cruz

Rubia Esperanza Cruz, 61, of Worcester passed away in Marlborough surrounded by family, on Sunday April 19, 2020. She was born in La Union, El Salvador. The oldest daughter of Eufracio Garcia Cruz and Isabel (Alvarez) Cruz. 

A devoted Christian, Rubia studied theology and dedicated her life to ministry. She was a wise woman with a fervent love for sharing the Gospel. Rubia was a woman of prayer who lived her life to love and serve people. She was a faithful member of Bethesda church in Worcester for many years and went on to pastor Emmanuel Christian Center in Worcester, where she served her community to the fullest. 

Rubia was a loving pastor, a great sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and above all, a sincere and loyal friend. She had an infectious laugh, was an avid reader, a natural photogenic, and had a high appreciation for a good joke. She was spontaneous, joyful and was known for her hearty cooking. She had a never ending love for her grandchildren and was sure to be found making them a warm hot meal on a Saturday morning. 

Altruism and hospitality would perfectly describe Rubia as she was generous beyond means and found joy in giving and hosting loved ones. 

Rubia was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2010 and with an unwavering faith battled for her health until her last day. 

She leaves a son, Adilmar E. Torres; two daughters, Hasel J. Torres, Orfa Fermin-Torres, eight siblings, Antonio Cruz, Erique Cruz, Jeremias Cruz, Elva A. Chacon, Jose E. Garcia, Alba Saenz, Edith and Norma Garcia; eight grandchildren, many nephews and nieces. 

Rubia was loved and will be remembered by many. 

Due to the current restrictions on the number of people allowed to gather, a private funeral service will be held Thursday April 23, at Emanuel Christian Center, 814 Boston Post Road, Marlborough. A graveside service will follow at Hope Cemetery, in Worcester. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Collins Funeral Home (www.CollinsFuneral.com), 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough. All are invited to sign her online guestbook at https://www.collinsfuneral.com/obituary/Rubia-Cruz