Today, we gather to celebrate the life of Danny Cruz, a loving father, son, brother, grandson and friend to all, whose presence brought light and laughter to everyone who knew him. Danny's journey began on May 21, 1974, in Lubbock, Texas, and though his time here was far too short, the impact he made will last forever. Danny was welcomed into the kingdom of Heaven by his Lord and Savior on October 15, 2025.
A viewing will be held in Amarillo on Monday, October 20, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Shafer Mortuary and funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on October 21, with a viewing before from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Emmanuel Worship Center in Lubbock. Burial will follow at Englewood Cemetery in Slaton, TX.

Danny grew up surrounded by family and friends who loved him deeply. After graduating from Ropesville High School, he set his sights on Texas Tech University, where he worked hard to pursue his dreams. His passion and determination ultimately led him to a career as a highly skilled transmission builder, a trade in which he truly excelled. From the time he was small, he liked taking things apart to see how they worked and then putting them back together again. Those who worked alongside him admired not only his skill, but also his work ethic, sense of humor, and genuine kindness. He loved cooking, grilling, and NASCAR, and he loved going to the cabin in New Mexico. He also loved his awesome dog Tiggies to the moon and back.

Danny's spirit was infectious. He had that rare ability to make you laugh even on your hardest days, and his warmth could fill any room. He was quick-witted, hardworking, and always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. More than anything, Danny loved his family. His sons, Riley and Braeden, were the pride and joy of his life.

Danny leaves behind a legacy built on love, perseverance, and compassion. He was happy to share his love for our Lord with everyone.

He is survived by his sons, Riley and Braeden Cruz; his parents, Ralph and Delia Cruz and Mike and Vickie Thomas; his brothers, Mike Quintanilla and wife Trisha, Julian Cruz, Ralph Thomas and wife McKenna, his sisters Cecilia Alcala and husband Eddie, Rose Hopkins and Rita Epp and husband Jeran, his grandmother, Juanita Cruz; his girlfriend, Melissa Rodriquez, her children Luke and Isabella, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, uncles and aunts, and his beloved dog, Tiggies. He joins in eternal rest his grandparents, Viola Donley, Kenneth Rackler, Bernabie Cruz, and Sylvia Thomas, uncles Joe Hernandez, Melisio Cruz and Dewey Short.

Though our hearts ache with his passing, we find comfort in the memories he leaves behind — the laughter, the lessons, and the love that will continue to guide us. Danny's life reminds us to live fully, love deeply, and never take a single moment for granted.

Rest peacefully, Danny. You will forever be loved, remembered, and missed. We love you more!