Tomas Ortiz

Mr. Tomas "Tommy" Santellan Ortiz, a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, in Midland, Texas, at the age of 84. Born on September 3, 1940, in Big Lake, Texas, Tommy lived a life marked by devotion to his family, service to his country, and unwavering faith.
Tommy married the love of his life, Alicia Maria Briones, on April 5, 1970. Together, they built a foundation of love and laughter, celebrating fifty-four years of marriage that blessed them with two sons and a legacy of joyful memories. His life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of family bonds.
A proud veteran, Mr. Ortiz honorably served in the United States Army for two years. His service to his country was a source of great pride and laid the groundwork for his strong sense of duty and commitment. Following his military service, Tommy embarked on a successful career in the oil and gas industry, dedicating thirty-two years to Exxon before his well-deserved retirement. His colleagues remember him as a man of integrity and a mentor to many.
Tommy's faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a devout Christian, he was a long-standing member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Andrews, Texas, since 1977. His faith guided him through life's challenges and joys, and he found comfort and community within the church.
An avid sports fan, Tommy relished the excitement of football and NASCAR, enjoying the thrill of the game and the race. His infectious laughter and love for sharing jokes were legendary; he had a unique ability to light up a room and bring smiles to the faces of those around him. Tommy's joy for life was palpable, and his spirit was a gift to all who knew him.
Left to cherish Tommy's memory are his loving wife, Alicia Ortiz of Andrews, Texas; sons, Eric J. Ortiz of Andrews, Texas, and Peter P. Ortiz and wife Beatriz of Houston, Texas; brother-in-laws, Tomas Briones and wife Emma of Phoenix, Arizona, Carlos Briones and wife Eliza of Kermit, Texas, and Paul Briones and wife Olga of Kermit, Texas; sister-in-laws, Marcela Martinez and husband David of Kermit, Texas, and Delma Sanchez of Kermit, Texas; grandchildren, Tomas "TJ" Ortiz of Midland, Texas, Alexandra Ortiz of Andrews, Texas, Isabel Ortiz, Maximilian Ortiz, Lucy Ortiz, Nicolas Ortiz, Catherine Ortiz, and Victoria Ortiz, all of Houston, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family members.
Mr. Ortiz is reunited in eternal peace with his parents, Pedro and Marcela Ortiz; sisters, Pauline Puentez, Gloria Cerda, and Barbara Cerda; and brothers, Herbert Ortiz, David Ortiz, Simon Ortiz, and Richard Ortiz. His reunion with those who predeceased him offers comfort to his family, who envision joyful reunions and the sharing of heavenly laughter.
Tommy's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, service, and humor. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him, but his legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of his family and friends. Tommy's story is one of a life well-lived and well-loved, a narrative of a man who made an indelible mark on the world through simple acts of kindness, unwavering loyalty, and the sharing of countless moments of joy.
As we bid farewell to Mr. Tomas Santellan Ortiz, let us celebrate the life of a man who taught us the value of a good laugh, the importance of faith, and the immeasurable strength found within the love of family. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at McNett Funeral Home in Andrews, Texas, from five until seven o'clock in the evening. A rosary will be held on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at McNett Funeral Home in Andrews, Texas starting at six o'clock in the evening. Funeral services for Mr. Ortiz will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Andrews, Texas, at eleven o'clock in the morning with Father Joseph Ogbonna officiating. Burial will follow the services at Andrews North Cemetery.