Arsenio Sam Cruz Torres

Mr. Arsenio Sam Cruz Torres, age 88, of Zebulon, passed away May 12, 2026, at his home. Arsenio was born in San German, Puerto Rico, son of the late Arsenio Cruz, Sr. and the late Amansia Torres. He moved to the United States in 1946, settling in New York City.

Arsenio spent most of his life in law enforcement. He began his career with the New York City Police Department. After retiring from there, he  moved to Molena and served as Chief of Police. He also worked as a police officer for the City of Zebulon, a correctional officer for Spalding County, and held several security positions through the years. In addition, Arsenio was a skilled glass smith who cut, replaced, and installed glass and mirrors.

Arsenio was a jack of all trades—master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one. He was a hardworking man and true workaholic who especially enjoyed “shed life,” where he spent countless hours tinkering, repairing, and fixing things. Arsenio also had a deep fascination with ships and all things maritime, was an animal lover, and a fan of Barbara Streisand and Betty Boop. It was in 2018, when he prayed to receive Christ, and was a believer in angels, especially Michael the Archangel.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Andrew Cruz, and daughter, Elizabeth Cruz.

He is survived by his wife: Delia Cruz; children: Richard Diaz, Anthony Cruz, Marilyn Diorio, Arsenio “Sam” Cruz, Larsen Cruz, Ruth Cruz, John Morales, Margaret Velez, Richard Rivera, Heidi Thompson and Wilmary Gonzalez; 37 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., in the chapel of Moody-Daniel Funeral Home with his son, Pastor Richard Rivera officiating. Burial will follow in Moody Memorial Gardens.

Friends may visit the family on Monday, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the funeral home.