Kathleen Cruz-Moyet, 67, of Nacogdoches, Texas, was born on September 10, 1958, in Tacoma, Washington, and passed away surrounded by loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ildefonso and Maria Luyanda.

She is survived by her husband, Eustaquio Cruz-Moyet; her children, Matthew Cruz-Luyanda , Juan Cruz-Luyanda, Adrian Cruz-Luyanda, Martin Cruz-Moyett, and Magdalena Kay; her grandson, Zayden Kay; and three brothers.

Kathleen realized one of her greatest dreams in 1984 when she became a mother for the first time. Over the years, she and Eustaquio welcomed four sons and one daughter, embracing all the joys and adventures of raising a big family. Becoming a grandmother in 2025 was another dream come true. One of her most treasured memories was celebrating Halloween that year with her grandson, who dressed as Scooby-Doo while she joined in the fun as Velma.

A proud graduate of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Kathleen earned her bachelor’s degree in Education and began her career in Killeen, Texas. She later retired from Nacogdoches ISD after 42 years of teaching, most recently as a Life Skills teacher. Kathleen was known for her compassion, dedication, and the lasting impact she made on her students and colleagues alike.

Kathleen also held a deep love for Puerto Rico and long dreamed of visiting the island to see it one last time. She often shared that love through her cooking, preparing family favorites like pernil, bacalao, and crispy tostones for those she loved.

Kathleen will be remembered as a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, and inspiring teacher. Her legacy of kindness, faith, and love will continue to live on through all who knew her.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Kathleen’s church in her memory.