Published on June 3, 2025 11:37 am
Last Updated on June 5, 2025 6:27 am
Cruz M. Watts, 18, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025.
Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL, followed by a memorial service at 5:00 p.m. Burial will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Effingham. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to his boxing gym Luyando Boxing and Fitness in Champaign, IL. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.
Cruz was born on June 17, 2006 in Springfield, IL, the son of Jill N. Tieffel and Tommy G. (Greg) Watts. Cruz was “people champ” to all his boxing friends and family. Luyando Boxing Gym was his second family and home. Cruz traveled to Champaign 3 to 4 times a week to train and workout. Cruz had Olympic aspirations and was determined to succeed. His love for boxing started with his brother Zac when he was only a toddler. Cruz’s mother Jill was his biggest supporter and fan. She traveled with him and cheered louder than anyone else! Jill never doubted his ability to succeed.
When he was not training, Cruz also loved playing basketball at the park or rec center with his friends and playing video games when he had time. He enjoyed spending time with his girlfriend Brooklynn. Cruz was not a follower – he did his own thing. With his busy schedule, Cruz still managed to work at Dollar General. Family was important to Cruz. He loved spending time with Savana. They fought and loved like siblings do. Cruz loved watching fights on tv with his mother (who was his best friend). They never missed watching a fight and would binge on any good series, while of course eating healthy, protein packed foods.
Cruz will be remembered by his parents; sister, Savana Watts; other siblings, Elizabeth Watts and Teryn Beckler; grandparents, Belinda and Sonny Uptmor and Dolores “Lori” Watts; great grandmother, Joyce Kreke; aunt, Jodi VanScyoc; uncles, Mitch Tieffel and Jeffrey Watts; nieces, Jacie and Kacee Jewell; nephew, Emmitt Noffke; and numerous cousins and friends.
Cruz was proceeded in death by his brother, Zac; grandfathers, Kent Tieffel and Tommy Watts; aunts, Rhonda Conner and Connie Watts; and uncle, Michael Watts.