Iris Cruz

Iris Cruz of providence passed away at Rhode Island Hospital on April 13, 2026.  She was 76 years old.  Iris was born on December 3, 1949, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, daughter of the late Juana Rivera and Julio Cruz. 

Ms. Cruz lived in Rhode Island for 26 years, prior to that she resided in Brooklyn, NY.  Regardless of where she lived, Iris was the neighborhood mom and grandmother.  She helped everyone and used to invite all her kid’s friends in for a meal.  Everyone else’s needs came before her own.  She was the definition of a champion and warrior to her children and grandchildren due to her strong, fearless and sassy nature.

Ms. Cruz is survived by her immediate children, Juanita Hidalgo, David Esperon, Brenda Hidalgo Rivera, and Jacob Luis Hidalgo. She also leaves behind her son in law Ricardo Rivera and beloved dog Dante. She was a proud grandmother of 11 and a great grandmother of 13.  Iris was the oldest of 8 children and was regarded as a second mother by her youngest siblings.  Iris is reunited in heaven with her son, the late Hector Manuel Hidalgo, her parents, and pup Tiana.  

In accordance with her wishes, all services for Iris Cruz will be private.  Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Charles Coelho Funeral Home 151 Cross St. Central Falls, RI.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Iris Cruz, please visit our floral store.