Isabel Ortiz

Isabel Ortiz, a cherished soul, passed away peacefully in Albuquerque, NM, on October 7, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on May 6, 1933, in the small town of Solano, New Mexico, Isabel was the beloved daughter of Frutoso and Stella Blea. Her life was a testament to kindness, generosity, and the beauty of a life well-lived. Isabel's journey was shared with many loved ones who predeceased her, including her devoted husband, Crestino Ortiz, her parents, siblings Carlos, Dora, and Ruby, her children Michael, Pedro, Charles Gene, Chris Jay, Chris Ray, Robert, and infant daughter Elissa Roybal, as well as her stepdaughter Mary Austin and daughter-in-law Marlena Roybal. Her legacy continues through her surviving family: her beloved children Lisa (Eddy) Griggs, stepchildren Gina Ortiz, Chris Ortiz (Tina), Virginia (Elias) Angulo, Adam Ortiz, Pricilla Montoya, and Rose (Phil) Grassham. Isabel was blessed with a large, loving family that included grandchildren Adrian Roybal (Lola), Charlene Roybal (Anthony), Matthew (Leah) Tixier, Mike Roybal, Ariana Roybal, and Cipriana Roybal. Her stepgrandchildren Paul (Bethany) Carabajal, Mellissa Carabajal, Manual, Michelle, Caroll & Desmond Austin, James, Monica (Jasmin) Ortiz, Anthony, Richard (Michelle) Angulo, Elias Angulo, Mellissa, Ondria & Anjelica Ortiz, Issac Montoya, and Anthonette Ortiz also carry forward her spirit. She was adored by seven great-grandchildren, 26 step-great-grandchildren, and numerous step-great-great-grandchildren. Isabel joyfully embraced many who considered her their grandmother, along with countless nieces, nephews, and cousins. A woman of many talents, Isabel dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as a caregiver for the elderly, a daycare attendant, and later retired from El Toro Restaurant. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she sold homemade tortillas and sopapillas, and offered ironing services to her community. Isabel loved to have company, and her home was always open to friends and family. Her warmth and hospitality were unmatched, leaving everyone she met feeling welcome and valued. Isabel's hobbies included chatting on the telephone and visiting with her many friends. Her gift for conversation and her ever-present smile were a source of comfort and joy to all who knew her. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with others, making everyone feel like part of her family. The family extends their deepest gratitude to her caregivers Adelina Vigil, Carmel Pino, and Nicole De La Rosa, as well as Linda Apodaca, Kim Garcia, and Estella Gonzales. Special thanks go to her primary care provider, Lindsey Foust, and the compassionate hospice nurses Melissa, Dana, and Suzanna. A service to celebrate Isabel's remarkable life will be held on October 19, 2026, at 10:15 a.m. at St. Anne's Catholic Church, located at 306 W High St, Tucumcari, NM 88401. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Isabel's memory to a charity of your choice. Pall Bearers: Adrian Roybal, Matthew Tixier, Desmond Austin, Gayland Griggs, Ernesto Gonzales & Anthony Sais Isabel Ortiz's legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to us all.