Walter Cruise Jr. was born on May 9, 1941 , in St. Louis, Missouri, to Ceola Thomas Lewis and Walter Cruise, Sr. Walter was baptized by the Catholic Church and attended Catholic school from elementary to middle school. Always inquisitive, Walter excelled in business and finance.

Walter married young, and his eldest daughter, Beverly Cruise, was born into this union. Years after this union ended, he met and fell in love with the beautiful Geraldine Williams. The two were married and had six additional children: Alicia, Walter III, Michelle, Monulita, Donta, and Christie.

In addition to his service in the United States Air Force, Walter worked for General/Allied Chemical Corp. until he retired. He is preceded in death by his parents, his son Donta, his grandson Dante, his two sisters Jean (Carol) and Pearlie Mae, and his ex-wife Geraldine.

Walter leaves behind his children, Beverly Cruise, Alicia (Hosey) McGruder, Walter Cruise III, Michelle Cruise, Monulita Cruise, and Dr. Christie Cruise; his sister, Sandra Lewis; his grandchildren Darneisha, Dylan, Brian, Christian, Daniel, LaShonda, and Sharita; and extended family and friends.