Juanita Ortiz

     Juanita Ortiz was born in La Feria, Texas in 1952.  Juanita and her family left Texas and settled in Madera when she was 7 years old.  As the oldest child she took an active roll in the care and upbringing of her 6 siblings until the age of 16 when she left home to begin the life of a mother and a wife with her husband Trinidad Ortiz.  Trinidad and Juanita moved from Madera to Strathmore in 1976 where they would proudly raise their 6 children, who would give them 24 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

       Juanita held a number of jobs in the Strathmore area including Oberti Olives, Golden Maid Packers, Armstrong Olives, Lobue Brothers and Suntreat Packing houses.  Later in life she found a truly fulfilling profession as a housekeeper and caretaker for elderly members of the community, all of whom would grow to love Juanita as a cherished member of their family.

     Juanita did not enjoy sitting at home. Despite some health problems that would slow a weaker person down, she never stopped doing what she loved; singing to God, shopping, attending prayer group, or visiting with her children and grandchildren on a regular basis. 

     Perhaps what defined Juanita more than anything else was the depth and conviction of her Christian faith.  Juanita belonged to St. James Catholic Parish and was an active member of it’s Grupo de Oricion.  She found great joy in singing in the choir during Sunday Mass and shared her love for Jesus with all.

     Juanita left this earth for her reward after a brief illness on November 29th surrounded by her children and husband of 53 years. Public Viewing will take place at Sacred Heart Church from 5:00PM to 7:00 PM on December 16thand the recitation of the Rosary will be at 6:00 PM.  Burial Mass will be held on December 17th at 10:00 am with the interment of her body at Lindsay Cemetery immediately thereafter.

Webb Sanders and Smith Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences may be made to the family at www.webbsandersandsmithfh.com

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