Maria del Carmen Evelina C. Ortiz

December 4, 1932 – October 30, 2025

Evelina blessed the lives of her husband, children, family, and friends with her love, faith, and kindness. On October 30th, she peacefully journeyed to meet the Lord.

Born on December 4, 1932, to Maria Montano and Alfonso R. Contreras, Evelina grew up in the close-knit one-square-mile city of South Tucson. It was there that she met the love of her life, Nieves Ortiz Jr. Together, they shared 72 beautiful years of marriage — a love so enduring that they were often seen holding hands and affectionately known as the "Lovebirds".

Evelina is survived by her devoted husband, Nieves, and their seven children: Frank (Reina), Mary Lupita (Ernesto), Jose Nieves (Gloria), Mark (Yvonne), Richard (Donna), Carmen, and Margaret Ann (Michael). She is preceded in death by grandchild Gloria Maria Ortiz. She leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters Josephine Montano and Dolores Franco, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Her unwavering faith in the Lord and devotion to the Virgen del Carmen (Our Lady of Mount Carmel), guided her through every season of life. When diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2018, Evelina chose to place her trust entirely in God's hands. Her family is forever grateful for the precious years that followed — years filled with grace, laughter, and love.

Her annual Vigils for the Virgen del Carmen, feast day July 16th, brought together generations of family and friends. These celebrations of faith through prayer, song, devotion, and community will always remain a cherished part of her legacy.

Evelina's life was rooted in faith, family, and love. She found joy in life's simple blessings―puzzles, word searches, drawing, sewing and crocheting. Her crochet gifts carried her love, time, and care, making them treasured keepsakes.

We were truly blessed to have Evelina in our lives and will forever treasure the memories we shared with her. She is deeply missed, now and always.

God bless you, Evelina. May you continue to watch over us and send your love and blessings upon us all.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Evelina's name to St. Ambrose Church.