Phyllis Shaffer Ortego

Phyllis Shaffer Ortego departed this life on September 6, 2022 at age 64 after a brief illness. A native of Baton Rouge, charter member of Trinity Lutheran Church and alumna of Belair High School, she was a long-time employee of the Department of Natural Resources before retiring. Phyllis will always be remembered for her warmth, humor and intelligence. She loved to laugh, watch her hummingbirds, hold babies, have tea parties, listen to waves... She was devoted to and cherished by her family and friends and met life's challenges with grace and quiet strength. Her unwavering support and love will be sorely missed by her children and grandchildren. Phyllis is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Joseph Ortego; children Jeffrey (Jenna), Jessica and Christopher Ortego; grandchildren Karleigh Ortego Punkay (Daniel) and Clark, Dylan and Rose Ortego; father Emerson "Bill" Shaffer, Sr.; siblings Emerson "Terry" Shaffer, Jr. (Dawn) and Janice Shaffer Synstad (Dean); sisters-in-law Karen Shelton (Hugh) and Debi Charleville (Wally); as well as beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. She is preceded in death by her mother, Marjorie Zammit Shaffer. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the ICU C staff of the Bluebonnet BR General for their compassionate care. Fly free with the hummingbirds, Phyllis - whatever will we do without you. Visitation to be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home in Baton Rouge on Saturday, September 17 from 9-11 a.m., with services immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Trinity Lutheran School in Baton Rouge.