Joy E. Cruz-Ninham

Joy Elaine Cruz-Ninham, 51, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Aurora St Luke's Medical Center. She was born on August 19, 1973, in Milwaukee, WI, to Gail Kowalik and Darnell Ninham. She was a proud resident of Milwaukee and was a loving sister, daughter, mother, and grandmother. Joy was united in marriage on July 29, 1991, to Efrain Cruz. They were both blessed with 9 beautiful children, Daniel, Abigail, Sarai, Elisa, Karen, Jason, Matthew, Bethsaida, Nathan, and 10 beautiful grandchildren. Joy spent most of her time taking care and raising her children. She graduated from Milwaukee Area Technical College on May 11, 2017 and continued her career being a medical interpreter.

Joy was happiest cooking and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Family and friends would recall spontaneous porch cookouts she would host. She loved singing in a choir and traveling to Mexico. She loved blasting Prince and oldies in her car with her windows down. Most of all, she loved being with family.

A viewing will be held at Max A. Sass & Sons-Greenridge Chapel (4747 S. 60th St., Greenfield, WI 53220) on Sunday, May 11, 2025 from 1-4PM. A chance to say your final goodbyes will be at the funeral home on Monday, May 12 from 9:30-10:15AM. Burial will follow at Good Hope Cemetery at 11AM. In lieu of donations, flowers arrangements may be sent to 4747 S 60th St, Milwaukee, WI, in Joy's memory.