Maria "Maggie" Magdalena Ortiz James

Maria Magdalena Ortiz, lovingly known as Maggie, entered eternal rest and was welcomed into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 19, 2026, following complications of lupus. She was born on August 18, 1952, in Brownsville, Texas, and later made her home in Albion, Michigan.

She attended Albion Senior High School and graduated with the Class of 1972. Her life reflected strong faith, devotion to family, and service to others. A committed member of the Pentecostal church, she lived her faith through compassion, humility, and generosity.

Throughout her life, Maggie worked in many capacities, including as a waitress and cook, and she was instrumental in the success of Lopez Taco House. She also worked as a factory worker and later as a caregiver for individuals with disabilities. She approached every role with pride and responsibility. Her home remained open to family and friends, where meals were shared freely and comfort was always offered. She was known as a gifted cook and a gracious host.

Maggie was preceded in death by her parents, Guadalupe Ortiz and Maria Garza Ortiz, and her siblings Maria Antonia “Toni” Lopez, Guadalupe “Pete” Ortiz, Conrado Ortiz, Tim “Gil” Ortiz, and Manuel “Rick” Ortiz. She is survived by her partner, Bob James, her children Sonja (Jeff) Willson and Robert “Bear” (Kathi Place) James, her grandchildren, Jared (Erika) Willson, Hannah (Kyle) Winchell, Courtney (Vito Barone) Willson, Jordan Willson, Kody Beals, James, MyLee James, Haillee James, and her great granddaughter Natalie Winchell, along with her brother Paulo “David” Ortiz of Austin, Texas, her sisters Manuela “Mannie” Block of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, Maria “Martha” Gonzales of Lansing, Michigan, and Sylvia Valdez of Austin, Texas, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Maggie leaves a legacy of faith, love, and quiet strength. She was a devoted partner, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. She will be remembered with deep respect and enduring love.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7

Visitation will be held at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Dr, Albion, MI, on March 23, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with Words of Remembrance to be said at 6:30 PM.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the Lupus Foundation.

Please feel encouraged to share memories, condolences and photos with the family through this online guest book.