Maria L. Ortez

MARIA LIBRADA ORTEZ

Maria Librada Ortez, born on October 11, 1932, in Cleveland, New Mexico, peacefully passed away on January 10, 2025, at the age of 92. Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Abenencio and Saferina (Sanchez) Bernal. Maria was the beloved wife of the late Robert, with whom she shared 59 years of marriage. She was a devoted mother of Teresa of Pontiac, Cisco (Kathy) of Romulus, Lorenzo (Amy) of Orion Twp, Goretta Contreras of Pontiac, Ignacio (Bettina) of Waterford, the late Guadalupe (Debbie) and the late Miguelito. Also survived by 4 sisters, 2 brothers, 10 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 5 brothers and 1 sister, and two grandsons. Maria and her husband Robert were foster parents to troubled teens as well as mentally and physically handicapped children and adults of all ethnicities for over 50 years. Maria also worked at the W.H.R.C. in Pontiac, providing assistance to the Latino community in obtaining aid and resources. With a heart of gold, she touched and impacted so many in her life and her memory will live with many forever.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, January 23rd, from 3 pm—8 pm, with 6:30 pm Sharing Time and 7:30 pm Rosary Prayers at Sparks-Griffin Funeral Home, Pontiac Chapel. She will lie in state on Friday, January 24th, from 9 am until the Funeral Mass at 10 am at St. Michael Church, 120 Lewis St., Pontiac. Following the Funeral Mass, the Interment will be at All Saints Cemetery, 4401 Nelsey Rd, Waterford 48329.