She was born in Ganado, Texas on January 21, 1941, to the late Henry Cruz, Sr. and Elvira Pena Cruz.

Esther was a home daycare provider for 30 years. She loved kids and formed a lasting bond with all the children she took care of throughout the years.

She was a member of the St. Thomas More Catholic church and belonged to the Catholic Daughters as well as the Guadalupana Society.

She loved spending Friday nights cheering on the Judson Rockets, dancing with friends and drinking the occasional margarita while listening to mariachis. Esther was a loving wife, mother,

January 21, 1941 - January 16, 2026

grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who will be missed dearly.

She is survived by her loving Daughter; Evelyn Monica Infante and her husband Valentin of San Antonio; Son, Santos Lance Garcia and his wife Hope of San Antonio; Two sisters and Four brothers; Two grandchildren Koda Infante and Claire Garcia of San Antonio; numerous nieces and nephews and many loving family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Elvira Cruz; her sister Jane Lopez; and brothers Henry Cruz, Jr. and Bobby Cruz.

Pallbearers will be Alex C. Rocha, Fred Lopez, Jon Ryon Lopez, Eric Cruz, James Cruz and Sammy Cruz.

Services for Esther were scheduled at Oaklawn Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Visitation took place from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., immediately followed by the Rosary. The funeral service was held on Saturday, January 24, also at Oaklawn Funeral Home Chapel.

Following the service, burial occurred at Edna Latin American Cemetery in Edna, Texas.

Arrangements are under the direction of Oaklawn Funeral Home in Edna. 361-782-2221. www.oaklawnfhednatx. com