Tirso Cruz III mourns passing of eldest son Teejay

“Today, Kuya TJ has received the miracle of healing that we have believed God for. He is faithful.” (Photo: @bodiecruz/Instagram)

Veteran Actor Tirso Cruz III and wife Lyn Ynchausti’s mourn the passing of eldest son Tristan Jedidiah “Teejay” Cruz, who died last Wednesday, November 21 due to lymphatic cancer at the age of 37.

The news was first posted by cousin former “Wildflower” star Sunshine Cruz, who posted a photo of her and Teejay saying, “I will miss you. RIP. Love you. Heaven gained another angel.”

Teejay’s brother Bodie Cruz then finally released a statement announcing, “The battle with cancer for the past six months was tough, but it was also a time we got to experience God’s love and faithfulness in abundance as a family.” He adds, “I am so grateful to the Lord for your life that was filled with passion, boldness and love. You desired nothing but to serve God and to glorify Him through dancing.” Bodie finished his post saying, “Now, you will be able to do it free from sickness and pain, and in front of our Creator Himself — and you get to worship Him there forever. I love you, Kuya.” 

As of writing, neither of Teejay’s parents nor has his only sister Djanin post about Teejay’s passing, although his mom’s last Instagram photo is from his birthday, giving her eldest a message admiring his “good heart, [being] a hardworking person, and so full of talent!” In Lyn’s words to Teejay, “I pray for good health and more blessings to come your way.”

Teejay was an Ang TV star who also acted in films “Rollerboys” and “Eskapo.” In 2003, Teejay left showbusiness to pursue his studies, obtaining a degree in International Studies at De La Salle University.

With his love for volleyball, Teejay made the headlines in 2015 for passion project “Spike For Hope” which was a volleyball tournament to honor pediatric cancer survivors. He also organized seasonal volleyball tournaments for Make-A-Wish Philippines, a foundation that grants children wishes as they suffer from severe illnesses.