Marla S. Cruz, 65, of Hoopeston passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at her residence. She was born on January 28, 1961 in Watseka, a daughter of Charles and Betty Lou (Griffin) Burdick and they preceded her in death along with two brothers, Dennis Griffin and Sonny Burdick; and one nephew, Matthew Burdick.

 

Marla is survived by her two daughters, Celina Arteaga of Watseka and Falcon Gomez of Donovan; two sons, Billy Ponton of Hoopeston and Kyle Ponton of Bradley; two brothers, Scott Burdick of Tennessee and Chuck Burdick of Watseka; one sister, Rebecca Burdick of Watseka; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Private services will be held. Burial at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka with Joe Hughes officiating.

 

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

 

Arrangements by Baier Funeral Home in Watseka.

 

Please share a memory of Marla at www.baierfuneralhome.com.