Francisco Lorenzo Mateo Cruz

Augusta, GA – Entered into rest on Thursday, May 7, 2026, Francisco Lorenzo Mateo Cruz, 71, loving husband of Fatima Zarate Cruz.

Francisco loved cooking, hunting (especially deer hunting), and gardening. His most cherished plants were his dagu and hot peppers. He was most known as a generous person with a great sense of humor. He loved to travel with family to the beach. A big family man, he loved to spend time with his wife and children. Franscisco proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for 22 years. A strong-willed man, he was known to be straight forward with no filter.

Family members include his wife: Fatima Zarate Cruz; children: Kayla Brianna Cruz, Kyle Brian Cruz, Yun Hyok Cruz, and Tae Hyok Cruz; and his siblings: Patricia C. Reyes, Antonio C. Atoigue, Camille A. Agbanlog, Denise C. Atoigue, and Joann C. Crisostomo. He was preceded in death by his mother: Julia Mateo Cruz; son: Joe Eric Cruz; and brothers: Agusto C. Atoigue and Jose C. Atoigue.

The funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Cornelius Anene celebrant.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2607 Lumpkin Road Augusta, GA 30906.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com