/fit-in/200x300/filters:fill(white)/prod/929/540528/NZNwUjoNqmDPqObP1780683247.7929695_Screenshot_20260605_140750_Facebook__1_.jpg)
Obituary For Julio "Ju, Benji, Primo" Cruz Jr.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Julio Cruz Jr., affectionately known as Ju, Benji, and Primo, who left us on June 3, 2026. Born on July 19, 1983, in Sharon, PA, to the union of Jacqueline "Jackie" J. Porter-Cruz and Julio Cruz Sr. Ju was a vibrant soul who grew up in Hermitage, where he filled the lives of everyone around him with warmth, laughter, and endless love.
Family was everything to Primo. He took joy in spoiling his loved ones and had a knack for making conversations flow with anyone. His love language was generously blessing his love ones. The love he had for his family was without question. His sense of humor was infectious, and his character sparked positive vibes and energy as he would simply walk into a shared space. Ju consider life as an adventure to be embraced. An avid admirer of old-school cars, he was fascinated by the classic look and feel.
Julio attended Pinellas Park High School and held various jobs throughout his life before finding his niche as a maintenance & property manager at Extraordinary Youth Programs Inc., where he had spent the last six years. His hard work and dedication were evident in everything he did, and his friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure among his colleagues and the community.
Benji also had a deep faith that guided him. He was a man with a strong spirit, whose love for God, life and family was palpable. He will be long remembered for the amazing man he was, his passion for the supernatural and commitment to his family. He will be remembered not just for his infectious laughter but for endearing heart, strength of character and loyalty he showed to those close to him.
Julio leaves loving memories to be retained by his loving parents daughters Sophia Cruz, Veda Cruz, Gianna “GG” Cruz, and LarRea “Lala” D. Cruz; son Alexander Johnson; brothers Jeffery (Tiffany) Porter and Rico (Teela} A. Cruz; as well as nieces and nephews, including Selena Johnson, Macy Brook, Leah Cruz, A’rya, Cruz, Ava Cruz, and Austin Deprano.
Primo’s legacy of love and cherished remembrances will also be embraced by those who knew him, especially his aunts & uncles: Phyllis White, Benjamin Porter III, Victor Cruz Jr., Juan Cruz, Yolanda Cruz, Sonia Cruz, Santa Cruz; cousins Marcus Horvath, Selena Brandt, Terrance White, Macy Horvath, Andrea Pagan, Olga Pagan, Charlotte Pagan, and a host of other cousins and close friends.
Julio was preceded in death by his grandparents Benjamin Porter II, Laverene "Bunny" Porter, Victor Cruz Sr., and Francesca Cruz; uncle:, Robert Cruz and cousin: Jose "Sweet Pea" Pagan.
In honor of Julio's life, family and friends will gather to celebrate him. A public viewing will be held at the Cedar Avenue Church of God, 1045 Cedar Ave, Sharon PA, on Friday June 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
There will be an additional viewing on Saturday June 13, 2026, starting at 10:00 AM. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 11:00 AM, with Pastor George Johnson serving as the celebrant.
After a committal ceremony, Julio will be laid to rest upon the meadows of Oakwood Cemetery. May his spirit live on in our hearts, and may we honor his memory by sharing the love he so freely gave. Rest well, Julio, you will be deeply missed.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Julio Cruz Jr., elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 1059 Hamilton Ave, Farrell, PA 724.983.1523
Send flowers to the service of Julio "Ju, Benji, Primo" Cruz Jr.
Photos & Video
Condolences & Tributes
Add A Condolence
Kevin Mitchell sent Sweet Moments for Julio "Ju, Benji, Primo" Cruz Jr. - June 13, 2026
Julio.... I'm at a complete loss .. you was my friend.. someone I always could talk to, and could never be sad around, you always had a way of distracting whatever issues going on in life and making me laugh then appreciate the small things. Your heart was so big and you meant well on almost everything you set out on . I never doubted your intention even if you was late or a no show for something going on. I knew you was good and we would catch up in a day or whatever. Julio we will forever have a bond and I will miss you my friend. I am going to say my goodbyes now with a heavy heart and tears in my eyes , Im Sorry I wasn't there for you I know you knew my heart and knew I couldn't stay but my friend you was always and you knew this. I'm so sorry for your family's loss and your kids loss, Julio loved his family so very much and spoke about them often. my condolences. Julio will forever be missed and when I think of Julio I will keep his memory alive with all our talks and laughs. I really am trying to understand and wrap my feelings around this as I just found out about this .. Julio please watch over all of us like you always have u was a big teddy bear as I would say. Until we meet again my dear sweet friend I will never forget you Julio. My friend always rest easy. And my prayers for your family and children left behind.
Rico, Jackie, and the whole family... my deepest condolences are going out to you all. I'm so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
