MARY ELIZABETH ORTIZ

September 27, 1953 - March 16, 2021

Mary has gone home to be with her mother Irene and her sister Martha.

Mary was a teacher/coach/mentor/friend for the Fairfax School District for 35 years. She was passionate about history and believed in providing students the opportunities to explore it, be it through history day or trips to the nation’s capital.

Mary was a giver, if she saw a need, she would find a way to fill it. Which came in handy when she became an Auntie. Mary so loved being Auntie. She loved making sure her nieces and nephews felt loved and taken care of. Hearing her say “mijo” or “mija” brought great comfort in times of stress or hardship. Auntie also loved animals especially her dogs Missy and Tessa. Her love of elephants is a clear given her extensive collection.

Mary leaves behind her father Jess, her brothers Jess Jr., Martin, Mark, her sister Joann, several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, along with several close friends/coworkers.

Services will be held on April 3rd, 2021 at 11 am, at Basham funeral care 3312 Niles st. 93306.

Mary says “No Black! Wear bright colors, Celebrate!”

Wear jeans, bright colored shirts and tennis shoes or Birkenstocks. If Mary gifted you a tie or crazy socks be sure to wear them in her honor.

For those who cannot attend services on the 3rd, please join us for a drive-thru memorial on April 10th from 10am-noon, in the Shirley Lane Elementary school loop located at 6714 Shirley Lane 93307.