Mr. Bernabé De La Cruz, age 81, of Lumberton, entered into his heavenly home on Sunday, January 20, 2019. He was born on June 11, 1937, in Peñón Blanco, Durango, Mexico to the late Cipriano De La Cruz and the late Juanita Deleón De La Cruz.

Along with his parents, he was also preceded in death by a daughter, Viola De La Cruz Smith, and a sister.

He will be remembered as a devoted son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. Though very quiet and soft-spoken, his humble character spoke volumes and he remains an inspiration to all who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed by many!

He leaves to cherish his memories, the love of his life, his wife of 58 years, Angelica De La Cruz of the home; his children: Bernabé De La Cruz, Jr. and wife Lori, Dallia De La Cruz Obregón, Amelia De La Cruz, Rosita De La Cruz, Samuel De La Cruz, and Daniel De La Cruz and wife Brittany; a son-in-law, Mark Smith and wife Jennifer; twelve grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, plus numerous others who, throughout the years, have loved him as their "Daddy" and "Grandpa" as well. He is also survived by one brother and five sisters and many extended family members, including his wife's family who have always loved and cherished him as one of their own.

He also leaves behind his church family. He loved you all so much and was so proud of being a member of Saddletree Church of God. Thank you for all that you have done for him throughout the years and for always making him feel loved. None of it has ever gone unnoticed!

His family would like to extend a special thanks to his caregivers, his daughter and granddaughter, Rosita and Teresina, who, along with his wife, have given so much of themselves selflessly, especially within the past year as his health began to decline. We're also very grateful for his great-grandson, Xavian, who brought so much joy to Grandpa and made his final months so much brighter.

A time of visitation will take place prior to the service on Saturday, January 26, 2019, from 2:00-3:00 PM at Saddletree Church of God, 1508 Rennert Road in Lumberton, NC. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM with Rev. Kenneth Locklear officiating.

Burial will follow at Floyd Memory Gardens, 3720 Old Whiteville Road in Lumberton. The family will also be receiving friends at other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to help offset funeral expenses.