Memorial service for Richard Lee “Ricky” Cruz, age 40, of Fayetteville, TN will be held at 12pm on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at Higgins Funeral Home. Visitation with the family will be from 11am to 12pm on Saturday at Higgins.
Ricky was born June 4, 1982, in Apache Junction, AZ. He was a proud veteran of the US Army and served three tours of duty overseas. Ricky was a member of the Unitarian Church in Tullahoma, and he enjoyed playing disc golf, hiking, journaling, and photography. He was a loyal friend and loved by many. Ricky passed away February 7, 2023, at his residence.
Survivors include his wife, Kerri Candida Cruz; daughter, Tessa Cassandra Cruz (Alexander Dyer); sons Edwin Cullen Cruz, Atreyu Metzler; grandchildren, Bradley Christian Cruz Dyer, Persephone Elizabeth Marie Dyer, Axel Lander McCormick Dyer; siblings, Danielle Palagyi, Jacob Imhoff; in-laws, Edwin and Janet Cruz; and nephew, Willyam Cruz. Ricky was preceded in death by his siblings, Tommy Petito, Gina Petito, Denise Imhoff; and grandson, Aidan Lee Thomas Anglin.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to VFW Post 2167, 2007 Wilson Parkway, Fayetteville, TN 37334.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Richard Lee Cruz.
6 Comments To "Richard Lee “Ricky” Cruz"
#1 Comment By Paula M. Tucci On February 8, 2023 @ 8:18 pm
God bless my dear Hero Richard. Gone too soon. Wishing him peace without pain and hoping everyday is sun filled and perfect. Always his Angel. Blessed to know him. Heartbroken tears flow freely as amazing memories fill me now. Freedom is not FREE.
#2 Comment By Paula Gorbutt On February 9, 2023 @ 8:33 am
Richard you will truly be missed. You left us way too soon and you were truly a friend to those needing love and compassion. Your patriotism was endless. Your love of family and country were inspiring. I will miss you playing Quiz Planet with me. Rest peacefully until we meet again.
#3 Comment By Roman Romero On February 9, 2023 @ 8:57 am
Way to young … it was an a honor to serve with you … RIP BROTHER
#4 Comment By Bonillas On February 9, 2023 @ 11:28 am
Was an honor serving with you man. 855th and 259th. Love you bro. You will be missed.
#5 Comment By Rick Phelps On February 9, 2023 @ 8:39 pm
I share deep condolences from Ricky’s many friends to his family . He was a friend to all and gave of himself in many ways without seeking reward. I was happy to serve the UUC of Tullahoma under his Congregational Presidency and to also share his love for music :, playing, singing and composing ! However, I did not share his love for Hot Chicken or hot sauce ingesting contests; he won a few ! His freesbee golf exploits were also legendary.
Ricky was a proud Army Vet and very worthy of his several honors earned in three tours For his service he again has my great admiration and gratitude RIP !!
#6 Comment By Jared & Melissa On February 10, 2023 @ 12:59 pm
I am so proud of you. You are a true hero. You are an artist! Now I wish I had bought one of your photos. I’ll miss your voice. Until then. 💜
Thank you for always being just a phone call away.
Love you battle.