Raymond “Ray” Ortiz, 82, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on May 20, 2024, in Tampa, Florida. He was born on March 8, 1942 in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. Raymond had many fond memories and loved sharing stories about growing up on the island with his seven siblings.
In 1954, the family moved to New York City, and Raymond graduated from Haaren High School in 1961. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1964, serving in Germany for three years; during that time, he became an Expert Pistol Marksman, earned a National Defense Service Medal, and was promoted to Sergeant, E5. After returning to the states, he reunited with his sweetheart, Toni. They married in 1968 and built a beautiful life together, welcoming three children over the next eight years. While raising his family, Raymond returned to school to pursue his passion for Art, graduating with honors, with an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from New York City Community College. He worked for several years as a successful Commercial Artist and Graphic Designer for Vogue Magazine and Sterling International.
In 1979, he moved his family to Tampa. There were few Commercial Art opportunities in the area, so Raymond began working in telecommunications, and over time was promoted to supervisor and project manager. In 1995, as empty-nesters, Ray and Toni moved to a lovely new home in Lutz, eventually retiring there. He was always available to his neighbors, either to lend a helping hand or for good conversation.
Raymond was a “Master of All Trades,” and was self-taught in many areas, including art, mechanics, carpentry, horticulture, and so much more. He loved working with his hands and enjoyed taking on a variety of projects for family and friends. He will also be remembered for his caustic wit, silly jokes and lively sense of humor.
Raymond is preceded in death by his parents Ramon and Julia Ortiz, his brothers Ramon “Moncho” Cruz, Angel Cruz, and Roberto Ortiz, and his daughter Lily. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 55 years, Antonia “Toni” Ortiz, and their children Raymond (Lisa), Derek and Stacy Ortiz. Raymond’s legacy carries on in the lives of his six grandchildren who he adored: Raymond Aaron, Nicolas and Sofia Ortiz, Julianna Margre, and Derek Alexander and Vivienne Ortiz. He is also survived by his sisters Consuelo Cruz, Carmen Ortiz and Iris Torres, his brother Edmundo Ortiz, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Raymond will be deeply missed and never forgotten. The seeds he sowed in the hearts of those who knew him will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come.
In my Father’s house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you.
John 14:2
A visitation for Raymond will be held Friday, May 31, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Gonzalez Funeral Home, 7209 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33614 with funeral services beginning at 11:30AM at the funeral home. Interment will follow with military honors at 2:00PM at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
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