Visitation Information

Gloria R. Ortiz

Passed away on September 25, 2024

Gloria R. Ortiz, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on September 25th, 2024 at age 72, surrounded by loved ones. A lifelong resident of Chicago, Gloria was born on July 13th, 1952 at South Shore Hospital. She was raised in South Chicago and South Deering, where she developed a strong sense of community and family that she cherished throughout her life.

Gloria's love for her family was unparalleled. She was a devoted mother to her three children: Catalina Ortiz, Jennifer Ortiz, and Carl Camacho. Her five grandchildren were her pride and joy: Kasmrinh Faulkner, Ariyan Faulkner, Jizelle Salazar, Antonio Camacho, and Carmelo Camacho. Known affectionately as “Cha-Cha” to her grandchildren, Gloria's boundless affection for them was a shining example of unconditional love.

She was the proud eldest daughter of Ramiro R. Garza and Helen Garza (née Rodriguez) and was adored by her brothers and sisters. Predeceased by her parents and sister Juanita Garza, she leaves behind five siblings: Ramiro (Laura), Rebecca (Richard), Yolanda, Diane (Hugh), and Raul (Susan), as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and friends.

A graduate of Our Lady of Guadalupe Elementary School, St. Francis de Sales High School, and Chicago State University (B.S. in Business Administration), Gloria proudly dedicated 35 years of her life to the field of healthcare administration. She began her career at Claretian Medical Center, where she served in various capacities, including Union President. She later served for 13 years at the University of Chicago Hospital Office of Clinical Research, and retired in 2020.

Gloria was known for her masterful culinary skills, in particular her family recipes for Mexican mole, carne de puerco, Puerto Rican rice, and Italian beef. She enjoyed dancing, listening to music, traveling the world, gardening and making ceramics. Gloria was an avid reader, devouring novels in days. She also loved to shop. Constantly exploring garage sales, the clearance aisle, or off-season sales, Gloria knew how to find a bargain. Trips to visit family in Marion would often take twice as long due to the many shopping "pit stops" along the way. 

Gloria's sharp wit and sense of humor was infectious. She was frequently on the phone with one of her sisters. She was always proud to be a Garza and a Romero, and cherished her time at family events. Most of all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren. Her zest for life brought joy to everyone around her, and her vibrant spirit will be remembered by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support OLG School via PayPal to: bhall@olgschicago.org or checks can be mailed to 9050 S. Burley Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, October 7th, 2024 at 10:00 AM DIRECTLY at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 3200 E. 91st Street, Chicago IL. Immediately following the Mass, we will proceed to Saint Mary's Catholic Cemetery 87th Street and S. Hamlin Ave, Evergreen Park, IL 60805. Arrangements entrusted to Elmwood Chapel, Chicago.  For more information 773-731-2749.