NEW BEDFORD-Claude P. Cruz, 71, of New Bedford, died Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at his daughter's home, surrounded by his family, following a brief period of declining health. He was born in New Bedford and was a lifelong resident. He was the son of the late Peter and Josephine (Baptiste) Cruz and the husband for 50 years of Theresa A. (Rogers) Cruz. Claude was employed by Tremblay's Bus Company as a van driver. He was a communicant of Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. In his leisure time, Claude attended many classic car shows and enjoyed working on his 1964 Buick Riviera. Survivors include his wife: Theresa A. (Rogers) Cruz of New Bedford; daughters: Vivian Cruz of New Bedford and her late husband Pedro J. Gonzalez, Sheila Paris of Providence; brother: Richard Gamboa of New Bedford; sister: Vivian Vance of New York; grandchildren: Justina Griffin and Kevin, Jordan Gonzalez and Alyssa and Alexis Gonzalez and her companion Shawn Green and well as other grandchildren; great granddaughter: Samara Green as well as other great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; he was the father of the late Anthony Paris and Claudette Garcia. Claude was the brother of the late Donna M. Cruz and Patricia Biaz. Visiting hours Sunday from 2:00-4:00 P.M. His funeral will conducted Monday morning, 7:45 in the funeral home, with a Mass of Christian burial to be celebrated in Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church at 9:00. Interment in St. Mary Cemetery. Please be advised that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are strict guidelines that must be adhered to for the safety of everyone. You MUST wear a mask to be allowed entry to the services. Please practice social distancing and avoid any close contact. Guests will be permitted to pay their respects and depart to allow the next guests to enter. Capacity at the funeral home will be limited so there could be wait times outside the funeral home. Capacity in the church is also limited.Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated. Funeral arrangements entrusted to AUBERTINE-LOPES FUNERAL HOME, 129 Allen Street, New Bedford. Expanded lighted parking area with handicap accessible entrance to rear of funeral home.