Cruz Florez Sanchez was born on February 25, 1950, to Raymond and Nina Florez in Big Springs, TX. She grew up in Atwater and attended college in Merced. It was there that she met her husband, through her brother, Phillip Sanchez. They were married at St. Anthony's in Atwater, CA on June 14, 1975. The newly married couple moved to Fresno, CA where they raised 4 children. They recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Cruz held several positions during her life to include stay-at-home mom, childcare provider, CNA at a Fresno hospital, and ended her career as an Office Manager for Fresno Unified School District. She was an avid golfer and part of the Mexican American Golf Association (MAGA) where she dedicated several hours to improving the scholarship fund for future golfers. Cruz enjoyed spending time outdoors including fishing, camping and golfing.  Cruz enjoyed spending time with loved ones and going to casinos with friends.

Cruz Florez Sanchez, 75, passed away on 9/8/2025 in her home in Fresno, California. She is survived by her husband, Phillip Sanchez; her 4 children Leticia Funderburk, Christina Guthrie, Gloria Melvin, and Phillip Sanchez Jr; her 6 grandchildren and a great granddaughter.

Cruz will be cremated. A rosary will be held at Farewell Funeral Service on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 6pm. Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church the next day on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 2pm. A reception to celebrate her life will be held at the family home following the mass.

If anyone would like to donate to the Fresno MAGA scholarship fund in her name, please send to Fresno MAGA scholarship fund at 4632 E. Orleans, Fresno, CA 93702 or through Venmo: Mike Carrizales @Fresno MAGA