Cayden Cruz Jimenez, age 4, of Elgin, IL, passed away on April 24, 2024. He was born April 17, 2020 in Elgin, IL to his loving parents, Christian A. Jimenez and Crystal N. Villalobos.

Cayden was a beautiful, observant, smiley, giggly little boy. Although he was non-verbal, his love needed no words. Everyone was able to fall in love with Cayden with a single interaction. He loved being outside, especially if there was a nice breeze on his face. He enjoyed going to the beach or the pool, and listening to Ed Sheeran.

Cayden was able to give his family the gift of celebrating four beautiful years. He enjoyed all of his birthday celebrations. And he was also able to say goodbye to all of his loved ones, near and far.

Through Cayden’s journey, the family was able to help many other families like their own. He was the greatest teacher. Because of him, surrounding hospitals have changed the way they do their genetic testing. It is Cayden’s family’s hope that through his journey, he was able to touch hearts, change lives, and leave a big legacy.

Cayden is survived by his parents, Christian Jimenez and Crystal Villalobos; grandparents, Ignacio Jimenez and Silvia Espino, and Gloria Cruz and Francisco Cabrera; uncles, David Jimenez and Emilio Cabrera; aunt, Denise (Evan Burgos) Villalobos; and cousin, Aleena Rosas-Jimenez.

Visitation will be 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at Symonds-Madison Funeral Home, 305 Park Street, Elgin, IL 60120. The family asks that guests do not wear black.

To access the evening visitation remotely, loved ones are encouraged to log on via Zoom (Meeting ID: 817 2026 8478, Password: 622582).

Visitation will continue from 10:00am until funeral service at 12:00pm, Wednesday, May 8, 2024. Pastor Danny Flores will be officiating.

To access the funeral service remotely, loved ones are encouraged to log on via Zoom (Meeting ID: 844 8583 9435, Password: 932509).

Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, 1001 Villa Street, Elgin, IL 60120.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Cayden’s name to the National Tay-Sachs & Allied Diseases Association (NTSAD).

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.