Evangelina Ortiz

Evangelina Ortiz, age 91, of Bridgeport, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, at Bridgeport Hospital. She was born on December 27, 1933, in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, to the late Manuel González and the late Rogelia Moreno.

Evangelina relocated from her beloved homeland in her late teenage years to New York, Puerto Rico, Chicago and soon after Bridgeport CT, which became her home for the remainder of her life. Above all else, she cherished family. Nothing mattered more to her than family unity, connection, and being present for those she loved. Her strength was found in togetherness, and her heart was always open to her family and friends.

She retired from the former Roncalli Healthcare Center in Bridgeport, but retirement for Evangelina did not mean rest. Shortly thereafter, she dedicated her time as a volunteer at César Batalla Elementary School through the Foster Grandparent Program, where she lovingly supported young children with reading and any assistance they needed. Helping others—especially those less fortunate—was second nature to her.

A talented and seasoned cook, Evangelina’s kitchen was a place of warmth and tradition. While she was deeply rooted in Puerto Rican and Latin cuisine, her culinary skills extended far beyond.   Her experience cooking in diverse environments allowed her to learn and honor the authentic flavors of each cuisine she prepared.

Evangelina was predeceased by her beloved siblings: José, Tomás, Luis, Gregorio, Carmen, and Joaquina.  She is also survived by sisters Virginia and Silvina. 

She was the loving mother of José E. Ortiz, Jr. (America), the late Ángel M. Ortiz, Jorge L. Ortiz (Maggie), Sandra Aponte (Carl) and Vivian Rodriguez, like a daughter in every way that mattered.  She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jeremy, Jeffrey, Alyce, Sandra, Ángel Jr., Angelique, Branden, Marissa, Marcus, Jackie, and Jason; 17 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, countless friends and former companion Israel Aponte. 

Evangelina will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her strength, selflessness, her nurturing spirit, and the love she shared so freely with all. 

Viewing will take place on Monday, December 22, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Parish, Bridgeport, Connecticut at 1:30 PM. Interment will follow at Mount Grove Cemetery, Easton, Connecticut.

In Lieu of flowers donations could be made to St. Jude’s or Norma Pfriem Breast Cancer Center.