Curtis Edward Cortez, Sr.

Curtis graduated from Crawford High School (Class of 1970), Home of the Illustrious Eagles. Curtis then moved to Dallas, TX a year later. He was hired on as a Motor Coach Operator for Continental Trailways/Greyhound Bus lines in April 26, 1978. This career opportunity allowed Curtis to see beyond Louisiana and Texas state lines. He was able to travel from the coast to coast taking with him an endearing smile, a kindred heart, and laughter to share for miles. During this time he gained the love and adoration of his fellow drivers, ticket agents, and superiors. Curtis was a committed employee for 37 years.                Curtis, aka Cortez, Daddy, Ole Man, Curt, Uncle, Brown and even “Fat Boy” was a great family man. He loved Arcadia, his family and friends. Being in Arcadia brought him great joy (Chick-a-Dilly, collard greens & hot water cornbread) and relaxation (Dove House, Percy’s & Deer Camp). His contagious laughter and jokes infected us all. As all should remember his “Dying Love of the Dallas Cowboys”!! He never turned his back on “America’s Team”, but he took plenty of ridicule when they lost. None the less, a Cowboy for Life! On a serious note; Cortez believed in keeping the Pearson/Cortez family linkage together. Whatever it took, he was willing do and/or provide. Family First; Cortez Strong!                He is survived by his dear wife, Benita Roberts Cortez, with whom he would have celebrated 28 years of marriage on February 29th, 2016. Those left to delight in a life well-lived include: five loving children: Ancurnette “Shon” Cortez-Bolden (Anthony) of Dallas, TX, Curtis Cortez Jr. (Johnnae) of Lancaster, TX, Staci Butler of Mount Pleasant, TX, Courtney Cortez and Corey Cortez of Houston, TX; seven grandchildren: Nicolas Freeman and Anthony Bolden, Jr of Dallas, TX, C’Airra Cortez and Curtis Cortez III of Chicago, IL, Emmanuel Cortez of Lancaster, TX, Kera Douglas and Brandon Douglas of Mt. Pleasant, TX; three sisters: Magdalene Cortez of Dallas, TX, LaVada Abney and Maxine Prejean of Arcadia, LA; two aunts: Tommie Lou Rhodes Houston, TX and Willie Mae Cato of Gainsville, FL; two uncles: Lonnie Pearson (Willie Bell) of Gibsland, LA and Bishop Cleophus Pearson (Betty Jo) of Dallas, TX; and a multitude of special nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Curtis also leaves behind his devoted four-legged family; his dog-son, Kobi Cortez, and his grand-doggers, B.B. Cortez & Reyna Cortez.