Lauren Johnson-Cruz

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lauren Johnson-Cruz, who left us on July 15th, 2024, in Rahway, New Jersey, after nearly two years of bravely battling lung cancer.

Lauren Johnson was born in Staten Island, New York, on December 5th, 1962, arriving minutes before her twin sister, Lynne Johnson. She graduated from Curtis High School and pursued her passion for dance, earning a Bachelor's degree in Dance Education from NYU Steinhardt School of Education, followed by a Master’s degree from the College of Staten Island.

Lauren was an extraordinarily dedicated individual who loved her career as a dance and yoga teacher at the High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology, where she pioneered the dance program. For 35 years, she inspired countless young students at the St. Clare Dance Program in Staten Island, New York, which she co-founded with her dear friend and co-director, Dorothy Poppe. This cherished program continues to flourish under the leadership of her daughter, Elena Yasin.

Lauren was known for her passion and compassion, pouring her heart and soul into every class she taught and every dance she choreographed. She was a free-spirited adventurer who found joy in life's simple pleasures, such as reading books in her backyard, spending time with her three children—Brian, Cristian, and Elena Yasin—practicing yoga, watching Disney movies, and writing articles with hopes of one day submitting them to the New York Times.

Lauren's radiant smile could light up any room, and her caring nature left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. She was a beloved wife to Roeli Cruz, an inspiring teacher, a loyal friend, and an irreplaceable mother.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Lauren are invited to gather at Martin Hughes Funeral Home, 530 Narrows Rd S, Staten Island, NY 10304, on Friday, July 19th, from 2-4 pm & 6-9 pm, to reminisce, grieve, and support one another. A funeral service in her memory will be held at Trinity Lutheran Evangelical Church, 309 St Pauls Ave, Staten Island, NY 10304, on Saturday, July 20th, at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to support Lauren’s children and cover funeral expenses can be made here: Lauren Johnson's Final Farewell;https://www.gofundme.com/f/assist-with-lauren-johnsons-final-farewell?attribution_id=sl:f6179d37-be9e-43e7-b2fd-a5071e98169e&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_ft&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Lauren Johnson-Cruz will be deeply missed, and her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the dances that will continue to be performed in her honor.

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