June Martinez Cruz
July 10, 1948 ~ July 14, 2026
With profound gratitude for a life beautifully lived, the family of June Martinez Cruz announces her passing into eternal life on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the age of 78. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, teacher, and mentor of unwavering faith, a woman who was truly whatever you needed her to be. She possessed a rare intuition, always knowing exactly when to provide comfort, strength, joy, or compassion, and she never turned away a single soul who crossed her path.June was the undisputed matriarch and the glue that held everyone together. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her own home; she was a mother to anyone who needed one, creating a sanctuary of warmth, wisdom, and open doors. She dished out tough love when it was necessary, teaching her family to be strong and resilient. Most of all, she instilled a fierce belief in them that they could accomplish absolutely anything they put their minds to.
She was her children’s most enthusiastic fan and their rock. As a single parent, the ease with which she balanced their hectic schedules alongside her own was truly unmatched. Whether they were on the sports field, performing in a play, or singing in the choir, she made sure they felt her unconditional support. She attended as much as she possibly could and was a permanent fixture in the front row, cheering them on with enormous pride, finding great joy in the community of their activities, and offering her signature constructive criticism whenever it was needed.
Beyond the field, June possessed a vibrant, unforgettably funny, and expressive spirit paired with a brilliant, one-of-a-kind mind. She excelled at everything she touched and was a fantastic cook. She was self-taught in cross-stitch, crochet, knitting, and needlepoint, putting in the time needed to perfect every new skill she took on. But it was on the dance floor where her spirit truly soared; she loved to dance deeply, and it brought her an undeniable, pure joy. Truly generous with her genius, June refused to let her knowledge or her joy end with her. Driven by a desire to pass on her legacy, she shared her rhythm and talents with everyone around her, teaching her crafts to anyone interested and ensuring her children learned her hobbies as well. Whether she was cracking a quick-witted joke, leading a dance class, cooking a meal, or passing down a creative skill with a signature sparkle in her eye, she left behind a beautiful tapestry of memories and traditions that her family will cherish forever.
June dedicated her life to the service of others, spending 33 remarkable years as a civil servant with the federal government. She concluded her distinguished career in Salt Lake City with the Social Security Administration as a top technical expert in the field office who handled complex retirement, survivors, and disability cases. Operating with complete independence, she managed these intricate situations with a master's touch, and her warmth, leadership, and deep expertise helped secure the well-being of countless citizens in her community. Known by colleagues for her acumen, kind heart, and willingness to mentor others, June leaves behind a lasting legacy of public service and profound dedication. The community she so faithfully served will feel her impact for generations.
A lifelong pillar of the Catholic faith, June lived with a grace and devotion that touched everyone she encountered. For over 50 years, she shared this devotion by teaching religious education, touching and shaping countless young souls with her wisdom and warmth. She brought her lessons to life with trademark creativity, even having her students perform the musical Jesus Christ Superstar for the parish to ensure the message truly resonated and stayed with them. Her faith was equally alive as the Cantor for the church choir, where she blessed the congregation with a powerful voice that could move mountains. June sang in the choir with as much passion and grace as she danced, dedicated to her music ministry for as long as she was able. In recognition of her immense impact, the St. Francis Xavier Parish in 1995, named her Woman of the Year and she was celebrated for generously sharing her time and talents. Her life
was a true testament to her beliefs; she was a woman of prayer, immense strength, and profound charity. She found peace in the Sacraments and comfort in the promise of her faith, walking through life with a humble spirit and an open heart. Her service to others deeply reflected the love of Christ she so cherished.
June M. Cruz is preceded in death by her parents José E. Martinez and Oralia M. Martinez, granddaughter Lucianna Choperena, and son-in-law Erik Reclosado. She is survived by her children, Rudy (Sandy) Martinez, David (Amy) Cruz, Pamela Reclosado, Oralia (Kylee) Cruz, and Jennie Choperena; her 18 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; six siblings, Connie Bustillos, Larry (Sharon) Martinez, Priscilla (Javier) Rodriguez, Rosie Martinez, Sara Aguallo,
and Jackie Martinez; in addition to the extended family and friends who will miss her dearly and find comfort in the legacy of faith and love she leaves behind.
A funeral Mass was celebrated on July 24, 2026 at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Taylorsville, followed by a celebration of June’s life. Interment was at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Salt Lake City. Arrangements are entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Please share your memories with her family at www.starksfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Feed the Children in her honor, continuing her spirit of service and generosity. We take comfort in knowing she is now dancing in heaven, singing with the angels, and resting in the eternal embrace of the Lord she served so faithfully.