Brigida Ortiz

Mrs. Brigida Ortiz, age 99, of Winters, Texas, passed away on Monday, March 18th, in her home, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She was born to Pedro and Tieofila Hernandez in Vancourt, Texas, on October 8th, 1924. She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Ubaldo Ortiz, her son Raymond Ortiz, stepson Antonio Ortiz, and grandson Noe Coe Ortiz. She was her parents' oldest living child and the last of a great generation of her family. Better known as "Betty," she is survived by her six children: Amanda Mata of Abilene, TX; Noe Ortiz of Kingman, KS; Antonio Ruperto Ortiz of Winters, TX; Lesvia Oneida Millican of Winters, TX; Onofre Ortiz of Winters, TX, and Omega Maria Gehrels of Katy, TX; 19 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, untold great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. As the matriarch of her family, she led by example, lovingly providing guidance to her children born from years of experience having lived through the depression. Always before giving a thought to herself, her primary concern was how you and your family were doing. She had a no-nonsense attitude, was generous, and is remembered as extremely sweet and kind. As a young lady, her most favorite thing was going hunting with her brothers on horseback by night and the family picnics by the river where her extended family of uncles, aunts, and cousins gathered for a peaceful day of fishing, cooking over a campfire and long meaningful conversations that remained with her throughout the years. She was a devoted wife and mother, creating a loving home that provided strength and support without judgment. Betty never shied away from hard work; she instilled a strong work ethic in her children, and after 23 years, she retired from Dry's manufacturing, and she could always be heard to say, "I got this." She had an amazing green thumb, and her grandchildren's favorite memories are playing in her yard, which was abundant with trees, flowers, and shrubs that created a magical kingdom to run and play in. Her home cooking was phenomenal, and everyone wanted "Grandma's cooking." She was feisty and could hold her own against any challenge or adversity. She will hold a very special place in many hearts forever. The rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 2024 at the Winters Funeral Home Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2024 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church with burial following at Lakeview Cemetery.

Brigida Ortiz

October 8, 1924 - March 18, 2024