Juan A. Ortiz, 79, passed away peacefully at his residence in San Lucy, Arizona, on August 25, 2025, 4:33 p.m. Surrounded by his family, Juan's final moments were filled with the love and warmth that defined his life.
Born in Ajo, Arizona, and raised in Stanfield, Juan later moved to Gila Bend in the late 1950s. He was known for his diligent work ethic, having been employed by notable establishments including Ed & Tom's Truck Stop, Holt's Texaco, and Vi-lkam Doag Industries. He ultimately retired from the Tohono O'odham Health Transportation Services. Juan had a zest for life, enjoying traveling, sightseeing, and spending time with his family, whom he cherished deeply.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edith Baptisto Ortiz, as well as his parents, Anecito and Eloisa Ortiz. Juan is also remembered by siblings Christine and Barbara Ortiz, and brothers Raymond and Valentino Ortiz Sr. He is survived by his children, Juanaysa Ortiz (Leonardo Anaya), Juan Ortiz Jr., and Shianne Ortiz (Ismael Galaviz); his siblings, John, Victor, Lorenzo Ortiz Sr., Josephine Mike, and Tony Ortiz Sr.; and his grandchildren, Alberto (Ajay) and Cencio (Chencho) Vazquez, along with five granddaughters: Saige Neblina, Lonitza Ortiz-Quevedo, Anayelli, Nathalia and Alessandra Galaviz Ortiz.
Services will be held at St. Lucy Catholic Mission on Saturday, September 30, 2025. The funeral mass will commence at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial at Pioneer Cemetery at 6:00 p.m.
