Ophelia Cruz

Ophelia Vermillia Cruz, 72, of Santan, died May 14, 2022, at home. She was born January 15, 1950, in Phoenix, Arizona to Jonah Raymond Moffett and Richanda Lucille Enos. Ophelia was a very vocal woman in the District 4, Gila River Indian Community, and was well respected through out her community. She was a member of the Saint Anne Catholic Church, as a curisillista and in the prayer group. Those who knew Ophelia, new her as the Sacaton school nurse. She was a very traditional woman and loved passing on her traditional ways to her family. She loved her grandkids dearly, helping in raising them all. Ophelia enjoyed spending her time with all her family, and cruising when she was able to. She was surrounded by a house full of “loud” loved ones when she passed.

She is survived by her two sons and a daughter, Alonzo Apkaw, Albert Cruz Jr., and Ayla Cruz all of Santan, her brother and sister, Raymond Moffett of Casa Grande, and Diana Rhodes of Sacaton, 22 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by a son, Fabian Moffett, a daughter, Amelia Cruz, her siblings, Jacqueline Osife, Rocella George, Lavina Quintero, Harlan Moffett, Wayne Moffett, Edwin Moffett, and Alvin Moffett.
A wake will be held Thursday, May 19th, beginning at 6pm at the family residence. Mass will be held the following morning beginning at 6am at Saint Anne Catholic Church is Santan, burial to follow at Saint Anne Catholic Cemetery.