Stephanie Cruz-Mendoza, a mother of two and a well-known figure in San Antonio’s softball community, was tragically killed on Tuesday, August 13, in an incident involving her estranged husband, James Mendoza. Friends and family have remembered the 41-year-old as a warm, vibrant presence, with a smile that could brighten anyone’s day.
How the incudent happened
The San Antonio Police Department responded to a welfare check at a home on Division Avenue, where they found Cruz-Mendoza fatally stabbed.
Her estranged husband, James Mendoza, 54, reportedly attempted to take his own life at the scene. Cruz-Mendoza had been in the process of divorcing Mendoza, and friends close to the family claim he had been abusive toward her.
About Stephanie Cruz-Mendoza
Cruz-Mendoza was a passionate softball player and had been involved with the sport for over 20 years. She was a member of the team *The Gamblers* and formed close friendships with her teammates.
Adrian Garcia, a longtime friend and fellow player, shared how Cruz-Mendoza had become a source of support for him, especially during his own struggles. “She was at a point in her life where she was happy,” Garcia said, adding that she had recently gotten away from her abusive relationship and was embracing life again. “She was the life of the party, always making people laugh,” Garcia continued. “Her smile was incredible, and she made everyone around her better.”
Rick Banda, another friend from the softball community, described Cruz-Mendoza as a remarkable pitcher, even mastering the challenging knuckleball, which set her apart on the field. “She wasn’t just a good player, she was a great friend,” Banda said. “She had a smile that could brighten up any room, and she always gave everything she had for others.”
Both Garcia and Banda echoed the sentiment that Cruz-Mendoza’s death has left a void in the local softball community. “It’s a deep loss,” said Garcia. “She touched so many people on those fields and made their days better.”
Click here for Stephanie Cruz-Mendoza GoFundMe
In tribute to Cruz-Mendoza, the local softball community has organized a fundraising tournament, and a moment of silence will be observed at the Castillo Softball Complex on Sunday at 10 a.m. Her daughter, Alexis Luna, has also launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral costs, which has already surpassed its $5,000 goal, raising over $6,000.
The GoFundMe page describes Stephanie as a “beautiful and kind person” who enjoyed softball, fishing, and spending time with friends. “We are heartbroken, and our lives have been shattered and will never be the same,” the post reads.
Friends and family remember Stephanie Cruz-Mendoza as someone who had recently found happiness after leaving an abusive relationship. Her death is a reminder of the dangers many face in similar situations. Those in need of help can reach out to Family Violence Prevention Services at 210-733-8810 or contact the San Antonio Police Department at 210-207-7273 for support in safely leaving an abusive relationship.