Brenda Hernandez Cruz

Dr. Brenda Hernandez Cruz, our beloved earth angel, ascended into Heaven on January 7, 2024, in Salt Lake City, Utah, after suffering an unsuspected lethal brain aneurysm. 

Born on September 26, 1963, in Cabimas, Venezuela, she was the cherished daughter of Libertad and Bernardo Hernandez, she entered the world beginning her celestial mission to bring comfort, healing, and love to all she encountered. 

Brenda's earthly journey was defined by acts of kindness, compassion, and miraculous moments, reflecting her divine purpose. With a heart overflowing with heavenly love, she touched lives in ways only an angel could. As she continues her celestial mission, Brenda leaves behind a legacy of love and miracles, her spirit remaining a guiding light of eternal comfort and inspiration. 

A trailblazer in education, Brenda's remarkable determination led her to significant milestones, earning a PhD in Healthcare Administration and an MBA in Business Administration where she graduated summa cum laude of her class. Her academic achievements were not just personal triumphs but powerful reminders of the possibilities that could be achieved at any stage in life. 

In her professional life, Brenda was a respected Clinical Research Professional, contributing significantly to healthcare advancements. Her intelligence, work ethic, and ability to inspire were admired by colleagues. Beyond her career, Brenda's passion for volunteering showcased her admirable qualities, making a tangible difference in the lives of others. 

Devoted to her family, Brenda leaves behind her loving husband, her “Mahal” Mar Cruz, with whom she shared a profound 42-year journey, curating a bond and family that will withstand the test of time. Their enduring love serves as a testament to their commitment and resilience through life's joys and challenges. Brenda's greatest pride and joy extended beyond generations to include her three children: Daughters Mary Ann Horne (Morgan), Natalie Howa (Zachary) and son William Cruz. To her granddaughter Roxie James Horne, Brenda, affectionately known as Bueli, was the radiant light and love in her universe, bringing immeasurable joy and warmth. She instilled in them values of kindness, perseverance, the importance of family, and taught them how to chase their dreams. Her love, wisdom, and nurturing spirit formed the solid foundation of their family. 

Brenda was also a cherished sister to: Berly Hernandez Peña, Belitza (David) Lei, Bernadette Perez Blauensteiner and Bernardo (Tracy) Hernandez. Sweet sister in-law to: Sito Cruz, Emma Vilamayor, Wilda (Jonathan) Yee, Johnny (Carol) Cruz, Anthony (Wendy) Cruz. 

She was a favored and loving aunt, great aunt, Godmother, Cousin and dear friend to so many. Brenda's absence will be deeply felt. Yet, the memories, laughter, and love she shared will continue to be a guiding light for her family. 

In honoring Brenda's memory, her family will live out the values she embodied, keeping her spirit alive in their actions and choices. A gathering to celebrate Brenda's life will take place on Saturday February 3, 2024, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church starting with a viewing from 10:00am-11:00am, followed by a Catholic Mass (all are welcome) in her honor at

11:00am-12:00pm, with interment directly after at Memorial Mountain View Cemetery and a Celebration of Life luncheon at La Caille following the burial service around 1:00pm. The family kindly requests that you wear white or floral attire as a symbol of the beautiful life and radiant light that Brenda shared with us. 

As we find solace in our grief, we reflect on Corinthians 13:4-7, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud... It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." This scripture beautifully captures Brenda's spirit - patient, kind, and loving. Her life was a living embodiment of these virtues, and her legacy continues to inspire and guide us. 

Deep gratitude is extended to the staff at Intermountain Medical Neuro ICU Department for their compassionate care of Brenda during her final days. Their empathetic support mirrored the profound compassion and care Brenda showed to everyone she encountered throughout her extraordinary life. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made towards the Brenda Cruz Memorial fund foundationunidos.org