Judith Cruz Obituary
Judith Cruz, 65, of Plainville, CT, passed away unexpectedly on February 1, 2025. Born in Meriden, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late John and Elsie (Schumacher) Salvati and the loving mother of Ana and Frankie.
Judy graduated from Sheehan High School in 1977, where she dazzled as a flag and baton twirler. And if you were to ask her proud and loving children, she was also the designated Prom Queen!
Judy pursued her education at Stone School of Business and went on to build a fulfilling career at the Record-Journal. For nearly 35 years, Judith worked there as a Classified Ad Supervisor in the marketing department. She was passionate about her work and built lasting friendships with her colleagues-relationships that blossomed into lifelong bonds.
Above all, Judy was a devoted mother who, in the words of her children, crushed it as a single mom. She truly sacrificed everything to ensure her children had a beautiful life. She worked multiple jobs and gave selflessly, not only to her family but also to women in need, often collecting donations for women's shelters. Her children will forever cherish the simple joys she created-school vacations filled with conga line dances in the living room, the sound of Motown records playing as she twirled around the house, and the warmth of her full-hearted, belly-deep laughter. They will miss her legendary hugs-ones that lingered just long enough to feel truly held, and never let go from.
Judy was a woman of many talents and passions. She loved baking, filling her home with the scent of homemade breads, chocolates, and candies, always reminding her children, "Don't stomp or else the cake will cave in!" She was an avid reader of romance novels, a skilled crocheter who made delicate doilies, and an enthusiastic player of board games, card games, and video games alike. She had a deep love for animals and shared her home with many pets over the years, though her favorite was her beloved dog, Chelsea.
More than anything, Judy adored being Grandma Judy. She treasured her five grandchildren, hosting sleepovers where all five would stay up late watching movies, eating pizza, and indulging in all the junk food their hearts desired.
She is predeceased by her parents; two brothers, John and David Salvati; and nephew, Ray Tremblay.
Judith is survived by her loving children, Ana (Lorenzo) Guarino and Frankie (Darcy) Cruz; siblings, Fred (Pam) Salvati and Fran (Allan) Tremblay; grandchildren, Carter, Luca, Vincenzo, Autumn, and Lainey; many nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
Judith's final wish for those she leaves behind would be simple: be happy. She lived her life with love, laughter, and generosity, and she would want nothing more than for that spirit to carry on in the hearts of those who knew her.
A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11AM at St. John's Cemetery in Wallingford. B.C. Bailey Funeral Home is honored to have been entrusted with Judy's final care and arrangements. To leave a message of remembrance, please visit www.BaileyCares.com.
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Published by WFSB on Feb. 3, 2025.