Obituary

Remembering Samariz Hernandez-Cruz

Samariz Hernandez-Cruz, age 37, of Grand Rapids, passed away and went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, November 8, 2017. With an infectious smile that could light up the room, Samariz loved unconditionally and was a blessing to all she encountered. She worked as a community school coordinator for the Kent School Services Network. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Zoe Simone Cruz; husband, David Emelander; mother, Maria and Jesus Delgado-Cruz; father, Francisco Velazquez; brothers, Francisco and Brady Velazquez, Frankie and Jamie Velazquez; sister,  Mariely Velazquez; grandmother, Rosalia Ramos. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at St. Joseph the Worker, 3138 Birchwood SW, Wyoming, with Fr. Steven Cron Celebrant.  Interment Resurrection Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Monday from 3-8 p.m. and also on Tuesday from 9-10 a.m. at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville), 4145 Chicago Drive.

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November 15, 2017 6:52am

I HAVE NO WORDS BUT I LOVE YOU,ALWAYS HAVE AND ALWAYS WILL,UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN PRIMA.

— Tito cruz

November 15, 2017 4:42am

I'm sending my deepest condolences to your friends and family. May your spirit and legacy live on. Rest in peace.

— La'Shonda

November 14, 2017 12:01pm

As we took you to your final resting place I thought about your smile, your laughter and your love for family. It has been a tough week for all of us and as we grieve I know that one day we will be reunited. RIP princess and watch over us along with all the family who have passed. I love you ❤️

— Janet Luckett

November 14, 2017 5:53am

Maria and family Our hearts are Shattered by the Loss of your beautiful loving daughter. May GOD give you all, a piece of her sunshine and laughter that Samariz shared all the times with all her loved ones and may GOD... comfort you and Surround you with peace and conferred that your heart and spirit will need . RIP sunshine we love you and you will always be missed

— Gloria Ramos

November 14, 2017 4:03am

Rest in peace beautiful young lady. I'm so sorry. Thanks for being there during my tough time.

— Ha Truong

November 14, 2017 1:40am

Mis más sentido pésame para todos en la Familia. Por este medio, deseo expresar palabras de consuelo pues reconozco que deben estar pasando por momentos de mucho dolor. Al pasar por esta experiencia, muchos se preguntan si volverán a ver algún día a sus seres queridos que han muerto. En la Biblia en libro de Hechos de los Apóstoles encontramos la respuesta, pues enseña que Jehova Dios resucitará o devolverá la vida a todos nuestros seres amados que han fallecido. Hechos 24:15 dice: “ y tengo esperanza en cuanto a Dios, esperanza que estos mismos también abrigan, de que va a haber resurrección así de justos como de injustos." Tener esta esperanza le ha brindado a nuestra familia mucha fortaleza, y lo mismo esperamos para su familia.

— Sylvia Urena

November 13, 2017 5:32pm

Prima, I will always remember you as the happiest person always smiling no matter what. I cannot make it to say see you later, I know that you are watching over us all. God has gained an angel... Love You

— Jessica Sepulveda

November 13, 2017 4:38pm

RIH Beautiful . You are truly an angel!

— Kenyatta Vinson-Curry

November 13, 2017 1:37pm

I met Sami at a Grand Rapids School Board function, one at LINC and another one at Cesar Chavez School. I was so impressed with her dedication to the school and the children. She was open and welcoming and a true asset to Grand Rapids Public Schools. She made such a Wonderfull impression on me so I know how much she will be missed by so many. May God rest her soul.

— Katherine Lewis

November 13, 2017 11:50am

Sami - You brought so much dedication and spirit to the work with children and families at KSSN, Ceasar Chavez School, Baby Scholars, Arbor Circle and in our community. You made each one feel valuable and welcome. I know your spirit and care will continue to give me and others energy, light and purpose.

— Kathy Siegenthaler

November 13, 2017 11:24am

I will remember the way Samariz lived her life for others....

— Rev. John and Sarah Matias

November 13, 2017 10:30am

Samariz...my lil prima .wow I am at a lost of words .I wish I woulda spent more time with you .your smile lit up all rooms and pictures .your an amazing woman u loved everyone .your memory will always be in my heart .my sincere condolences to your mom daughter all family .I love u always beautiful angel.

— Claritsa Cruz

November 13, 2017 10:09am

Sami, this is not goodbye girl. This is “ok, love you, bye” and see you later. You left your mark on more people than you thought you would and we are all the better for it hermana. Your loud laugh and optimistic and sunny nature were a blessing to so many people. I loved that you gave of yourself so freely to help others and in the process you inspired many. I count myself blessed to have called you a friend and hermana. While You leave a void in our hearts we have many memories that will help us all through this tough time. I know for myself I will try to be better today than I was yesterday. I love you girl and I will be seeing you!!! To your family I send my thoughts and prayers and offer my deepest sympathies and condolences. Nunca es fácil perder un ser querido pero Samariz siempre va estar en sus corazones y sus memorias.

— Jackie Hernandez

November 13, 2017 5:03am

I send my deepest condolences for the loss of our beautiful co-worker who brought such joy to us all. May God bring you peace and comfort all the days forward and every need be supplied. My prayers are with you.

— Tequia Adams

November 13, 2017 4:59am

Sami's dedication to children and families will always be remembered. She truly brought the sunshine into the lives of many families. May God her family and friends. Marguerite Morgan - AC Baby Scholars

— Marguerite Morgan

November 13, 2017 4:39am

God has called you home sooner than we would have liked and we morn the absence of your presence. You will live always in the hearts of those left behind until you meet again.

— Margie Sepulveda Hoff

November 13, 2017 3:37am

I will always remember your contagious smile and all the beautiful memories that you added to my grandchildren while working with them at Cesar Chavez. I pray for my dearest friend your mother Maria and all of your family. I am sure that your soul is with our dear father and that one day we will join you there. Rest in peace my dear friend. -Ivette Melendez

— Ivette

November 13, 2017 12:27am

May memories of Samariz and the love of family surround you and give you strength in the days ahead.

— Carmen Ramos-Cruz

November 12, 2017 5:42pm

God graced us with a precious gift , An Angel he calls pure Joy. I pray for your family and all who immensely feel the pain of your going home. Although, this is not goodbye dear friend I’m sure we will meet again.

— Sonia Riley

November 12, 2017 4:46pm

My dearest Sami, You were such a joy to know! I remember when you catered my daughter's birthday and how special you made her feel! My girls always enjoyed your Halloween parties. Your devotion and love to your daughter was heartwarming. You were such a vibrant, lovely woman and I'm glad i had the pleasure of getting to know you. Rest well Beautiful... Yvonne

— Yvonne L Smith

November 12, 2017 2:58pm

You May be with our Heavenly Father , but your legacy and loving words will carry on. You were the angel that God put on earth to share love, inspiration, devotion, determination, joy, smiles that filled the room with your presence. You will continue to live in each of our hearts . We will make every day count. Share the free smiles with the ones who need a cheer up. You Sami will always live in our hearts . Thank you for being such a wonderful mother, daughter, cousin, friend, devoted worker and an amazing child of God . Much love always

— Vanessa Christopher

November 12, 2017 1:41pm

Samariz, it was a pleasure to have known you. I will never forget how you and your family made me feel at home when I was far away from home. I always admired the unconditionally love you had for your family and friends, and your beautiful smile. You were an extraordinary human being. Being your friend was a real pleasure. May you rest in peace my friend.

— Evelyn Salinas

November 12, 2017 11:07am

Samariz... An amazing mother, daughter, cousin, and friend who would stop whatever she was doing to help anyone in need. I recall the many nights we spent together, we practically lived at each other homes. Some of the best years of my life were spent with you and I am so lucky. I will never forget those moments. Love and miss you sooo much <3 Until we meet again, rest in peace.

— Grisel

November 12, 2017 7:43am

I will never forget your heart and what a special person you are. I credit it a honor to have known you and share in the love your family has for you and Zoe. Mz Sharon

— Sharon L. Greer

November 12, 2017 6:48am

Sami, You are an inspiration for us and your memory lives on in the people you have touched positively. May your family find peace in your beautiful legacy.

— Halima Ismail

November 12, 2017 5:29am

Uou were a gift to this world for the short time you were here. Thankfully for presence will be felt long after. I love you Sami

— April

November 12, 2017 1:31am

Sami, I miss you so much. I remember on Tuesday telling you how successful and loved you were. You were sad because you said that there was so much you wanted to do but hadn't been able to. I told you just how much you had already done. You raised a banana and said "High five to that! You're right!" Love you Sami, miss you forever...

— Carmencita Perdomo

November 11, 2017 6:21pm

Maria and family, my heart is saddened to hear about Samariz. I am thinking of you and will be praying that God comfort you during this time. 😢

— Yvette McCutchen

November 11, 2017 6:12pm

😔💔 Lord knows... Rest in Heaven...

— Victor Alverio

November 11, 2017 5:34pm

To my Beautiful cousin your faith and love will never be forgotten . You are now in God's Glory . Heaven is rejoicing.

— Jose L Morales

November 11, 2017 4:26pm

Sami was such a beautiful person and a true friend. We could talk about anything and everything, she was always there when I needed her. When we hadn’t talked in a while, she’d always say “Hey beautiful! I’ve been a horrible friend lately!” I can only hope that she knew how wonderful she was. I can’t believe Sami is gone and I’ll never hear her voice or laugh again. Cheers mama! Miss you so much!!!

— Katy Campione

November 11, 2017 4:23pm

Samariz, your life on earth has ended, but now you embark to new horizon, it’s a journey of peace and serenity, you will be missed, but God has called you for a reason, his plans for you are many, but he knows you’re up for the challenge, don’t worry about anything, God is on your side and he’s waiting for you with opened arms, and you’ll soon be singing and dancing with the angels, keep smiling and Rest In Peace, Love you

— Brenda Alvarez, Florida

November 11, 2017 3:47pm

My prayers to the family. I really didn't know her well, but when I was around her she wasn't just a light but a special light. Her smile always had an effect on others. When she smiled you couldn't help but not smile. May you rest in the comfort of His arms. You will never be forgotten.

— Adam Thompson

November 11, 2017 3:42pm

Samariz.. You had that bright smile That were all going to miss prima Rest in paradise ..... 💘 you prima

— Rose Aguilar

November 11, 2017 3:31pm

Es una pena inconsolable tener que vivir este instante tan doliente, el dia en el que dejas físicamente este mundo, sin embargo dejas a tu corto paso una estela de amor y cariño que siempre quedarán en nuestros corazones, marcados por el resto de nuestra vida. Sabemos que viniste al planeta para traer un mensaje y lo hemos entendido plenamente. Te extrañaremos mucho prima Samariz, descansa en paz.

— Iris (Laly) Cruz

November 11, 2017 3:07pm

Thank you for reminding me the importance of being my genuine self. There will never be anyone on this earth quite like you. You will always be loved.

— Gladys Picó

November 11, 2017 2:08pm

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. A memory that will live on thanks to a beautiful person like you. Rest in Paradise Prima.

— Mimi Rivera-Castro & Family Fl.

November 11, 2017 1:53pm

Samariz, Prima, although I never met you personally just to see all the love you bestowed through out so many people breaks my heart that you left this earth so soon. I truly wished I could've have met you. But God had other plans for you. Your legacy will live on, you left a positive impact on so many lives that Samariz Hernandez-Cruz ❤ will forever live in many people's heart. SIP Ivette Rivera

— Ivette Rivera

November 11, 2017 12:31pm

My beautiful cousin my heart is broken and I am sadden that I never got to meet you in person. The short time I got to know you thru face book made me very proud to be related to you. I was really hoping and looking forward to meeting you in person. I now look forward to meeting your mom and hearing I'm sure noting but wonderful stories of your life. Rest in peace. LOVE YOU!!!

— antonia grier

November 11, 2017 12:16pm

No words can adequately express my condolences to you. Sami was one of a kind. She made me smile every time I saw her. We would run into eachother and I would just smile, because her fast tongue, quick smile, snappy dress and all around beautiful self would be radiating, and genuinely happy to see me. Sami was so amazing like that! She would just make you feel... happy. Thank you for sharing her for this short time on earth. We were all so blessed to have had a chance to know her!

— Benicia Kyle

November 11, 2017 11:49am

Your love for all will be missed. Love you always. Rest In Peace.

— Carlos Sepulveda

November 11, 2017 11:47am

Your beautiful smile and love for everyone, will truly be missed. Rest In Peace.

— Carlos Sepulveda

November 11, 2017 11:39am

Our deepest sympathy. May God keep his arms wrapped around your family.

— Carmen and Tia Rosa Sepulveda

November 11, 2017 11:25am

Sami, your precious smile and loving personality lit up a room. You were always so kind. You had such a passion for families in the community while working for Baby Scholars and those families loved you! You will truly be missed.💔

— Veleda Cox

November 11, 2017 11:25am

Samariz! When I was given the news and your name was mentioned all that came to mind was that big beautiful smile! Such a sweety! Prima, may you rest easy in eternal peace in the arms of the Lord! ❤️ Miriam Camacho

— MIRIAM CAMACHO

November 11, 2017 11:23am

I will never forget your smile. I still cannot believe that you are not with us anymore :(

— Fiorly

November 11, 2017 11:06am

Samariz I’ve known you very long time I’m gonna miss your laughter. You left too soon but god has something plan for you. I will always remember you. Janet Peña-Cruz

— Janet Pena

November 11, 2017 10:56am

Dejaste un gran vacío amiga bella. Te extraño montones. Descansa en paz nena. Salmo 46.10

— Noemí Tobar Arellano

November 11, 2017 10:55am

I will miss your beautiful smile. Your love for everyone and your voice. My random phone calls just to say hi I love ok bye! I will always love. Rest in Heaven my sweet cousin ❤️

— Priscilla Hernandez

November 11, 2017 10:37am

Such a beautiful woman met you 6years ago and we have had ongoing contact your support and love for ppl and your family is infectious I'm going to miss your hugs the most you always tell me trust God it will be alright and it has been ok you told me to stay involved and I've done just that it's all because of you im willing to share my story ty sammi kylon and Courtney are missing you too gone way too soon rest peacefully in heaven ms sammi

— kathy bender

November 11, 2017 10:04am

You will always be in my heart, you were a beautiful niece whom I loved. We’ll never forget that smile and personality that you poured out to us.

— Rafael Hernandez

November 11, 2017 9:41am

To know you was to love you. RIP our sweet Angel of Love.

— Marla Freeman

November 11, 2017 9:29am

Beautiful woman gone way too soon. I will miss your smile and laughter...Rest peacefully. ❤️

— Lindsey

November 11, 2017 9:26am

Rest in heaven my beautiful friend samariz

— Natalie

November 11, 2017 9:09am

It was a blessing meeting you!!! Thank you so much foe tour laughter, your passion and love for the community. Thank tou for being part of us!!!

— Leticia De La Paz

November 11, 2017 9:00am

To my loving cousin your beautiful smile will be missed you were such a loving and selfless person a role model to many you will be missed dearly rest in peace may God have you in his glory

— Maria Torres

November 11, 2017 8:47am

Rest in forever peace my friend.

— Bernadette Santos

November 11, 2017 8:47am

I love you to infinity my beautiful cousin!

— Rosemary Ramos

November 11, 2017 8:44am

We will remember the love you showed every one of us, we love you Samariz. Rest preciosa.

— Luz Valle

November 11, 2017 8:41am

My loving cousin, I will miss yoir beautiful and loving personality. You’re love was unconditional and your commitment to family will never be forgotten. May you rest in God’s Glory!

— Glenda

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