William Cruse Obituary

Services for William Cruse of New Brunswick, NJ, will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Service, 201 Sandford Street, New Brunswick, NJ. The viewing will begin at 10am, followed by the funeral at 11am. Apostle Danette Worthen of New Beginning Deliverance Ministry, New Brunswick, will officiate.
William "Willie" Cruse, the third child of Theodore and Alice Terry Cruse, was born on September 12, 1934, and raised in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Sadly, his mother passed away when he was still a toddler, leaving a profound and lasting void in the family. In the midst of this heartbreaking loss, his Aunt Sarah Thomas, alongside his devoted father Theodore, stepped in to raise him. With unwavering love and compassion, Aunt Sarah became a true maternal figure in his life-a presence he cherished deeply. Later, his father remarried, and Willie was blessed with a loving stepmother, Estelle Garrison, who embraced and cared for him as her own.
Willie was educated in the New Brunswick Public School system and graduated from New Brunswick High School, where he was actively involved in Baseball, Football, Track and Field and Basketball. In 1956, he was united in holy matrimony to Goldie Thomas, and together they were blessed with two children, Derek and Vikki.
Willie's spiritual foundation was laid early at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in New Brunswick. Though he attended services less frequently in his later years, his faith remained a quiet, guiding force-shaping how he lived his life with kindness, humility, and integrity.
For over 40 years, Willie served the New Brunswick Board of Education as Head Custodian. He was known for his strong work ethic, quiet dedication, and deep care for the students and staff. He took great pride in creating a safe, welcoming environment for generations of young people. Upon his retirement, he left a legacy of commitment, reliability, and heartfelt service.
Willie lived a simple, disciplined life. He avoided debt, refrained from using credit cards or loans, and managed all his expenses with cash. He seldom spent on himself, but he delighted in treating his loved ones-taking them out to eat and giving thoughtful, generous gifts on birthdays and holidays. Giving brought him true joy. This deep joy in giving wasn't limited to family-Willie's generosity and kindness touched everyone around him.
His kindness reached far beyond his immediate circle. He often bought lunch for high school students and was always ready to help a friend in need, offering financial support-often without being repaid. His generosity extended to the wider community, as he was frequently seen tossing coins from his window to neighborhood children, brightening their days with small, sincere gestures.
As the proud part-owner of Little Willie's and Russell's Bar in New Brunswick, Willie helped create a welcoming space where friends and neighbors gathered to relax and connect. Even after selling the business, he continued working weekends there until the age of 80. He also established the Little Willie's Social Club-a close-knit circle of friends who enjoyed trips to Atlantic City, sporting events, crab fests, and other joyful outings that created lasting memories and lifelong bonds.
For the past year and a half, as Willie's health gradually declined, his grandson Aqeel, alongside his daughter, lovingly took on the role of his primary caregivers. Aqeel made countless sacrifices-putting aside personal time and commitments-to ensure his grandfather's comfort, dignity, and needs were always met. Their relationship was marked by a deep, unwavering bond that had grown stronger over the years. Aqeel's patience, compassion, and gentle care provided Willie not only with physical support but also emotional comfort during a challenging time. As Willie's independence lessened, Aqeel's presence became a vital source of strength-a true testament to the enduring power of family and devotion.
At the age of 90, as Willie's earthly journey came to an end, he was reunited with those who had gone before him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Alice Cruse; his stepmother, Estelle Garrison; his devoted companion, Eva White; his brothers, Charles, Frank, and Billy Cruse; his sister, Alicia Jordan; his brother-in-love, Roger Jordan; his sister-in-love, Bernice Cruse; and his niece, Robin Cruse.
He leaves behind a devoted and loving family: his children, Derek Cruse and Vikki Abdus-Salaam (Wali); his treasured grandchildren, Derek DiShawn, Aqeel and Amani; great-grandchildren, Dikier, Sabriya, Zakir, Nazir, Zaniyah, Alanah and Amara and great-great grandchildren, Hazel and Kye; nephews, niece, the entire Cruse family; and a host of dear relatives and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
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