Dolores Cruz, of Sunrise, Florida passed away peacefully August 21, 2021, at the age of 88 years old. Dolores was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico on September 26, 1932, to the late Antonio Paniagua and Clementina Cedeno.  She was the oldest of twelve siblings.

Dolores moved to New York as a young woman, there she met and married the love of her life, Harry Cruz on June 1951 who preceded her in death in 1998; they had four children together. Harry’s nickname for Dolores was Lolita, a name that was affectionately adopted by all her friends and family.

Lolita is survived by four children, a daughter-in-law and a son-in-law, Maria Cruz, Harry Cruz, Jr., Anthony Cruz (Donna) and Nancy Rogers (Rodney), six siblings, twelve grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. Lolita had a special relationship with  Elaina Santiago, a dear friend and confidant for over 50+ years. Lolita played an integral part in the lives of her children and grandchildren.  She will be greatly missed by them and the many others that she touched. The family rejoices in knowing that she is at peace and has reunited with the love of her life.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 30, 2021, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at

Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care

6400 Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood, Florida 33024

A grave-site service will be held on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, at 1:00 pm at

Cypress Hills Cemetery

833 Jamaica Avenue,

Brooklyn, New York 11208.

Family and friends that wish to pay their respect to Lolita, by attending the burial service, are invited to be at the gate, no later than 12:45 pm.

Thank you for your condolences.  We will always carry you in our hearts.