Stephanie Cruz

It is with tremendous grief that we announce that Stephanie Ann (Velasco) Cruz has passed into God’s hands on February 4, 2025. A loving daughter, sister, aunt, beloved wife, magnificent mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. A true friend to many.

Stephanie was a lifelong resident of Oxnard born on May 8, 1956, to Alexander and Esperanza Velasco. She attended St. Anthony’s Catholic Elementary School, Santa Clara High School (Class of 1975) and Ventura College. Her first job was with J. C. Penny’s Department Store in Oxnard before she made her career as a bank teller; retiring from Western Federal Credit Union after 20 years of service.

Stephanie loved decorating, crafts, gardening, shopping and added a creative spark to all the lovely projects she created. She was the first on the dance floor and loved to set a groove! Her nickname was “Fudgie” and when she toasted, she would always cheer “OPA!” The center of her joy was family. She loved family gatherings, parties, birthdays, graduations, and celebrations. She greeted her friends and family with open arms. Her happy smiling face made all feel welcome! She spread joy to all she met.

Stephanie is survived by her husband Daniel Cruz, son Andrew Cruz, Sister Jeannette Cortez, Brothers Alex Velasco (Christina), Charles Velasco, and James Velasco. She will be welcomed into heaven by the loving arms of her parents and her stepfather Ruben Zavala who have preceded her along with other loving family members. She will be missed by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Perez Family Funeral Home with visitation starting at 4:00 to 8:00 pm and Rosary starting at 6:00 pm. on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am Friday, February 21, 2025, at Santa Clara Catholic Church in Oxnard. Private interment will be held at a later date. Assisting the family will be Perez Family Funeral Home 1347 Del Norte Rd.,Camarillo, CA 93010, (805) 983-3457.