Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, Melva E. Cruz peacefully left her earthly body and joined those who have gone before her on Friday, January 16, 2026, in Galveston, Texas, surrounded by her loving family Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Galveston. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery under the direction of Carnes Brothers Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Friday from 5:00pm until 8:00pm where a rosary will be recited at 6:30pm.

Melva was born on March 23, 1950, in Alamo, Texas, and moved to Galveston, Texas in 1952. She was the heart and matriarch of her family. Her life was devoted to her husband, Alfred of 58 years and their three sons, Alfredo (Fredo), Ray, and Marcus.

Melva worked diligently for Southwestern Bell, beginning her career as an operator and rising to the position of Supervisor before retiring after 25 years of dedicated service. Outside of work, Melva found her greatest joy in family. She loved watching her children and grandchildren play sports, hosting family BBQs, celebrating holidays together, and dancing to any song that played — she never met a tune she didn't like.

With a heart of gold, Melva never met a stranger. She loved life and shared it generously with those around her, always ready to help anyone at any moment. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and they are left with countless beautiful memories that will be cherished forever.

Melva was preceded in death by her parents, Ana Maria Espinosa and Melecio Espinosa, and her grandparents, Roman Rodriguez and Margarita Garcia Rodriguez.

Left to cherish her memory are her sons Alfredo, Ray (Angelyn), and Marcus (Lisa); her siblings, Irma Sanchez, Melecio Espinosa, Tiofila "Josie" Rodriguez, Viola Flores, and Roman Espinosa; 14 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.