John Ortiz Jr.

John G. (Johnny) Ortiz Jr. was born June 17, 1940, in Beeville, Texas, to Paula & Juan T. Ortiz Sr. He graduated in 1957 from Williams Adams High School in Alice, Texas. He was drafted into service during the Vietnam War. Johnny was strong, dependable, and hardworking. Johnny worked in the oilfield industry for 32 years as a Driller for Flournoy Drilling Company, which later became Grey Wolfe. After he retired from the Oil Field, he stayed busy doing handy work until the day of his stroke.

Johnny was quirky, charming, and humorous. He often told politically incorrect jokes and was good at impersonations. He loved dancing and was exceptionally good at it. Johnny was known for sporting his classic Western attire. He was a devoted son who was always there to help his “folks.” Johnny was utterly enamored by Shirli, the love of his life, whom he called “Mamasota.” Although Johnny and Shirli had divorced after 24 years of marriage, they found their way back to each other after nearly a decade apart. The two never remarried but were inseparable as they began their second chance at a life together.

Life was perfect for them as they began to enjoy retirement, grandchildren, and making new memories until the day Johnny fell ill. Johnny was unable to walk or speak again. Shirli vowed to be by his side and care for him as long as possible. Despite Johnny’s health condition, he maintained a positive attitude and remained proactive in keeping himself as healthy as possible. He exercised faithfully every day in his wheelchair and always took his medications, even on his bad days. Whenever Shirli served him too much food (often the case), he always gave her “the look” with wide-opened eyes because Johnny desperately tried to watch his figure. The look was usually followed by one of the few choice words he could still somehow say… but that was typical Johnny.

Caring for Johnny became a collective effort for the family as Shirli’s health deteriorated. Shirli and Johnny continued to be cared for in the comfort of their home until Shirli succumbed to her health issues. It was apparent that Johnny’s loss of his beloved Shirli deeply saddened him. Johnny passed peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones at the age of 84. He is now reunited with his “Mamasota” in Heaven.

In this time of profound loss, Johnny leaves a legacy of love and laughter that will be carried on by his family. They take solace in the countless memories they shared with Johnny and the valuable lessons he imparted.

He is preceded in death by his Mother & Father, Paula Ortiz & Juan T. Ortiz Sr. and Step-mother Estefana (Chacha) Ortiz; his step-sons, Michael Ramirez and Vidal Billy Ramirez; brothers-in-law, Kenneth Harger, Arthur Harger, Jr., Eddie Harger, Charles “Chuck” Harger, Dick Whipple and Michael Heaton; sisters-in-law Delores Harger and Cheri Harger.

Among those left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Pauline (Santos) Ortiz, Barbara Ortiz, Jodi (Arturo) Trevino, Brandi Ortiz, and Kristi Ortiz; Sisters Mary Helen (Juan) Rubio and Roseanna (Mario) Bernal; eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. Sisters in Law; Marti Whipple, Juanita Heintzelman, Carol Heaton, Nancy (Phil) Cloud; and Brother-in-Law; Larry (Margie) Harger.

A celebration of life will start at 12:00 pm on Saturday January 04, 2024, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary, with a visitation from 1:00pm to 3:00pm the same day.