Austin Troy Cruz, a gentle and beautiful soul, was called home to rest in the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 2, 2026, at the age of 27.

His journey began on March 26, 1999, when he blessed this world as the cherished son of Kim and Raymond Cruz in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. From the very beginning, Austin brought an abundance of light, warmth, and joy into the lives of everyone who knew him.

Austin was a deeply loving son, a devoted brother, a treasured grandson, a dear nephew, and a loyal friend to many. Known for his exceptionally kind spirit and compassionate heart, he walked through life with a quiet grace and a genuine love for people. He found immense joy in the simple blessings of life, especially when taking long, peaceful walks in the outdoors and creating wonderful meals through his love for cooking.

Above all, Austin loved the Lord. His faith was a guiding light, and his life reflected the warmth and love of the Savior he so faithfully served. Though his time with us was far too short, the profound impact of his kindness, his joyful passions, and the sweetness of his memory will remain forever etched in the hearts of his family and countless friends.

He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, and he has kept the faith. He is now peacefully at home.

Austin is survived by his loving mother, Kim Guan Donaldson; father, Emile Raymond Cruz; maternal grandmother, Maxine Le'Doux; 2 brothers, Charles Logan Cruz (Tearnie) and Raymond "Aaron" Cruz; sister, April Kimble Butler (Stephen); 2 uncles, Taz Clark and Mark Gautro; and a nephew, Caleb Butler.

Austin is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Charles Eugene Clark; and numerous uncles and aunts.

Serving as pallbearers will be Logan Cruz, Aaron Cruz, Cade Young, Gregory Centeio, Chris Le'Doux, and Stephen Butler. Honorary pallbearers will be Uncle Taz Clark, and Uncle Mark Gautro.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation at Baker Funeral Home, 6401 Groom Road, Baker, LA, on Monday, July 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The visitation will continue at Baker Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Rick Geren. The graveside service and burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, in Baker, LA.