Maria Felix Ortiz, a warm and loving soul, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas. She was born on March 1, 1943, in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home at 504 N. 5th St., Orange, Texas 77630. Officiating will be her loving husband, Brother Johnnie Ortiz. A reception will follow at the Claybar Reception House.
Visitation will begin prior to the service at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Maria dedicated her life to her family. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life; she was a God-fearing woman who deeply loved Jesus and found joy in spreading His word. Alongside her beloved husband, Johnnie, she traveled all over the country and Mexico, engaging in missionary work, touching countless lives with her kindness and faith. Maria also worked as a seamstress for Texas A&M University. She had a vibrant spirit, loved to laugh, and possessed a wonderful sense of humor. Her passions included fishing and cooking delicious meals for her family, ensuring everyone always had a full belly and a place to rest at her home, embodying true "Texas" hospitality. Maria's heart was especially tender towards children and babies, and her good-hearted spirit shone brightly in all her interactions.
Maria leaves behind her loving husband of 65 years and 8 months, Johnnie Ortiz. She is also survived by her devoted sons, Johnnie Ortiz, Jr., David Ortiz, Michael Ortiz, and Daniel Ortiz; her cherished daughters, Rachael Pool and her husband Zak, and Sophia Taylor. Her legacy continues through her many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, too numerous to name individually, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her siblings, Domingo "Mingo" Castelan, Liboria "Libby" Ortiz and husband Fred, Yolanda Howell and husband Edward, Robert Castelan and wife Barbara, Thomas Castelan, and Herlinda Castelan, as well as many nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.
Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Epifano and Raquel Castelan, and her brothers and sisters.
Maria's warmth, laughter, and boundless love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit of generosity and faith will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.