Otilita Sabana

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Otilita “Tillie” Sabana, who

entered eternal rest on May 24, 2026, at the age of 97.

Born in Austin, Texas, on September 16, 1928, to Elvira Ortiz Perez and John Ortiz, Tillie was

lovingly raised by her stepfather, Augustine Perez and her mother. She lived a life centered on

faith, family, strength, and dedication. She shared 58 loving years of marriage with her beloved

husband, Bernabe Sabana, who preceded her in passing.

Tillie was the heart and soul of her family — a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great

grandmother, and great-great-grandmother whose life was rooted in resilience, compassion, and

unconditional love. She was the matriarch, the keeper of secrets and dreams, and the foundation

her family leaned on through every stage of life. Tillie was known for her quick wit and

unforgettable sense of humor. She spoke her mind, stood firm in her beliefs, and carried a strong

willed spirit that her family lovingly smiles about today because it was part of what made her so

cherished.

She is survived by her children: Rachel Ybarra, Alfred Ortiz, Sara Garcia, Bernabe “Tito” Sabana

Jr., Janell Smith (Brian), and Austin Flores (Mollie). She also leaves behind cherished

grandchildren including Abel Escobedo III, Tony Resendez, Anthony Gil (Rachana), JoAnna Urea

(Daniel), Gloria Gil, Margret Gleman (Robert), Anna Sabana (Edward), Deanna Tanguma (Xavier),

David Gil Jr. (Sharlym), Alfred Ortiz Jr. (Lelia), and Mike Ortiz (Kristen), a long with many

great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who will continue carrying her love, traditions,

and memories forward.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elvira Ortiz Perez and John Ortiz; her stepfather,

Augustine Perez; her beloved husband, Bernabe Sabana; her loving daughter, Elvira “Baby” Gil;

her stepbrother, Aciano Perez; and many other loved ones who welcomed her home.

Nothing brought Tillie greater happiness than having her family together. She cherished

gatherings filled with storytelling, music, good food, and cheering on her beloved UT

Longhorns. The lessons she passed down — grace, endurance, wisdom, and togetherness— will

remain woven into the lives of those she loved and continue guiding future generations.

Though our hearts are heavy in saying goodbye, the love, laughter, and memories Tillie gave so

freely will remain with us always. Her presence was a blessing, her love was endless, and her

legacy will continue to live on through the family she treasured so deeply. Until we meet again,

she will forever be loved, missed beyond words, and carried in our souls every day