Gerardette Cruz

Mother, in life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. In our hearts, you hold a place, no one else will ever fill. Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories. Our mother was a beautiful kind spirited soul that left us so many amazing memories, some that bring us laughter and some that bring us tears, none will ever be forgotten, and we will cherish them for a lifetime. We know you are smiling down on us with your “Happy Face.” Anna promises to keep the “Happy Face” in the family as well as the love for the color purple. Gerardette Christine Cruz (Brady) joined our heavenly father on December 25, 2021. She was 64 years old.

Gerardette was a lifelong resident of Hondo and was a photo tech at Wal-Mart for many years. She loved her job but especially loved the lunches she spent visiting with her co-workers that were her close friends and family. Gerardette loved all of her family, but her grandchildren were her pride and joy, she adored all of them in their own unique way. Regardless of how mom was feeling she always tried to make it to her grandchildren’s numerous sport activities, birthday parties, or any other event they were involved in. Gerardette loved getting together with family and friends. It would bring her great joy to sit and visit with everybody and to listen to the stories everyone told, mom loved being the fly on the wall listening to all the chisme.

Mom enjoyed the simple things in life, quality time with family and friends was one of her favorites besides going out to eat with her husband and grandkids. “Jorge’s” was one of her favorite spots. She lived life to the fullest and regardless of all the obstacles she faced, she never once complained, and her positivity was contagious to all those around her. Her loving, caring, kind, and supportive attitude inspired all who knew her. She was very special and held unique friendships and bonds with many, and all who met her will never forget her. We will truly miss her more than words can say.

Gerardette was born on April 11, 1957, to Prestinia S. Brady in Roswell, NM. She is survived by her husband Braulio Cruz of Hondo, children Jimmy Chavez (Anna); Iris Karges (Mark); Derrick Chavez (Joanne), step-children, Catalina Cruz; Alicia Hartley (Brian); Laura Herrera (Vaughn); Juan Cruz (Alison). Gerardette is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Quiawna Gutierrez-Chavez, Ethan Espinoza(Alondra), Nathan Espinoza, Monique LeBlanc (Jacob), Caleb Chavez, Hunter Chavez; step-grandchildren Johnny Marrujo, Carleigh Marrujo, Arianna Herrera, Leia Herrera, and great-granddaughter Wrenley Mae LeBlanc. She is survived by a special sister-in-law JoAnn Ortiz Brady and a special cousin Lynda Chavez, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceding Gerardette in death is her mother, Prestinia S. Brady; brothers, Walter (Rudy) Brady, Ervin Brady; husband, Jimmy Chavez; grandparents William and Rosarita Brady.

The rosary will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church in San Patricio on January 08, 2022, at 09:30am with funeral services following at 10:00am. Graveside services will immediately follow and she will be laid to rest at the Hondo Cemetery.

Proverbs 31:28-29- Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Isaiah 66:13- As one who his mother comforts, so I will comfort you.

Masks are mandatory. Out of respect for the family, please stay masked up during all services.