Santos Ortiz, 83, of Tavares, FL passed away on Thursday, June 15, 2023. He was one of ten children born to Heriberto Ortiz and Trinidad Rivera on March 24, 1940, in Naguabo, PR. He moved to NJ in 1953, where he met and married the love of his life, Virgenmina Ortiz, and later moved to Tavares, FL in 2006.
Santos was a devoted husband and father – he absolutely loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and people often heard him praising his family. He loved to love people and had a servant’s heart. His life was a living example of the Bible verse, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” – Philippians 2:3-5. For decades, Santos led many to the Lord; even in his last days while very fatigued, he continued to proclaim the name of Jesus. He was a member of the Great Commission Church of Paterson, NJ for 17 years where he participated in several missionary trips, which were very dear to his heart. In addition, he served as the Treasurer, Deacon and Choir member. Singing and playing the “maracas” and “guiro” was a sight to behold, and he continued his servanthood and singing at Lake Saunders Baptist Church “Iglesia Bautista Lake Saunders” in Mt. Dora, FL.
He was passionate about giving back and was always the first to sign up for volunteering. Serving and cooking were his passions; he not only led many, but he also fed many – at times leaving the front door open to his home for the homeless despite neighboring complaints.
Equipped to mentor tomorrow’s men, Santos served as a Commander in the Royal Rangers “Outpost 127” for 9 years where he was also dubbed “The Chef”. Enjoying community and fellowship, Santos also served as an Umpire at the church softball leagues, which was used as an outreach ministry. He reflected the church and the Lord Jesus Christ in action and attitude.
He was a gentle giant, stubborn but so funny, and throughout his entire life’s journey, he cracked jokes and affectionately teased his wife and children, most of his family, and really anyone in his presence. He had a great ability to make others laugh, and his sense of humor will be greatly missed.
Santos Ortiz, fondly known as Papi/Pito/Papa Santos/Grandpa/Big Gobbler is survived by his beloved wife (his “Negrita”) of 53 years Virgenmina Ortiz, his daughter Maria Elena Zayas and her husband Orlando Zayas, his son Santos Ortiz, Jr., his daughter Marisol Perez and her husband Eric Perez and his son Daniel Ortiz. His beloved Grandchildren: Nathan Ortiz, Hailey Ortiz, Zachary Noel Zayas, Kaitlyn Noelle Zayas, Briana Marie Ortiz, Brooke Marie Kennedy and Angelina Nikole Perez, and his Great Grandchildren: Liam Mychal Ortiz and Dante Rowan Ortiz, and was preceded in death by his son Orlando Ortiz.
Please join us in celebrating his life on Tuesday, June 20th at Steverson Hamlin & Hilbish, Tavares, FL. Viewing will be from 2-4pm and service and celebration of life will be from 6- 8pm.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of Santos Ortiz please consider making a donation to “Iglesia Bautista Lake Saunders” Missionary Fund – 1405 Bay Rd, Mt Dora, FL 32757
