Dolca Cruz, a beloved soul known for her warmth and vibrant spirit, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on November 20, 1957, in Manhattan, New York, Dolca grew up in Brooklyn before making her way to Newport in 1977.

Her career as a service worker in the food industry spanned over 20 years at The Galley on the Newport Naval Base, where she became a nurturing presence for many, especially for single sailors missing their families during holidays. Her home was a sanctuary where friends gathered, and her cooking-especially her famed rice and beans-created a sense of belonging for all.

Dolca was not just a mother; she was everyone's second mom. Known for her vibrant social spirit, she lightened every room she entered with her love for salsa, merengue, and disco music, often found dancing with joy. Her faith was her guiding light; she held a profound relationship with God and offered blessings to everyone she encountered, frequently sharing her heartfelt words, "Dios lo bendiga" (God bless you).

Dolca was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, with her family being her ultimate priority. Everything she did, she did for her children. She is survived by her dedicated partner of 42 years, William Nelson Paradise, Jr. of Tennessee, daughter Teresa Blair-Perez of Rhode Island, son Carlos Colon of Rhode Island, daughter Elizabeth Cruz of Rhode Island, daughter Jennifer Shaffer (Gerald) of Tennessee, and son William Nelson Paradise III (Grace) of Ohio. She was a proud grandmother of five and a loving great-grandmother to six beautiful children. Dolca is also survived by her brother George Mills of New Jersey and sister Inez Mills of New York. Dolca's relationship with her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she always ensured they felt her love through her delicious cooking that showcased her Puerto Rican heritage.

A celebration of Dolca's remarkable life will take place as follows: Calling Hours will be held at Memorial Funeral Home at 375 Broadway, Newport, RI, on August 10, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The Funeral Service will be conducted at Emmanuel Church at 42 Dearborn St., Newport, RI, on August 11, 2026, at 11:00am, with her burial following at St. Columba Catholic Cemetery at 465 Brown's Lane, Middletown, RI.

Dolca was preceded in death by her mother Christina Aponte and her brothers, Oswaldo Mills and Nelson Cruz, all of New York.