In Loving Memory of Frances O. Ortega

Frances O. Ortega was born on February 22, 1943, in San Antonio, Texas. She passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, at the age of 83.

Frances was welcomed into heaven by those who went before her: her beloved husband of sixteen years, Fernando Ortega; her first husband, Leopoldo Belmares; her loving parents, Juan Ortiz and Carmen Tellez; her brother, Edward Perales; and her daughter, Carmen Belmares.

Frances leaves behind her four children—Cynthia Belmares, Suzanne Belmares, Daniel Belmares, and James Belmares—who will carry her love with them always. She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and a joyful great-grandmother to three great-grandchildren, each of whom brought extra light to her days.

Frances was a proud graduate of Sidney Lanier High School's class of 1961, where she played volleyball and was a member of the Blue Jackets and the National Honor Society. She cherished her classmates and continued attending reunions with them up until her health began to decline a few years ago.

A dedicated and dependable presence, Frances retired as a civilian with the U.S. Air Force after 35 years of service. She worked in the travel and accounting departments at Brooks, Kelly, Lackland, and Randolph Air Force Bases, and her strong work ethic earned her accolades and several service awards. After retirement, Fernando and Frances enjoyed working side by side acquiring and remodeling several rental properties together.

Frances lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and generosity. A devout Catholic, she put her beliefs into action through kindness and care for others. She found great happiness in traveling—especially on cruises—and enjoyed life's simple pleasures, including cooking, sewing, gardening, and tending to her plants.

Frances loved the San Antonio Spurs and the Dallas Cowboys and could often be heard cheering them on from blocks away. She also had a tender heart for animals, caring deeply for her cats and her beloved dog, Fern. Frances often said she was shy; however, she never met a stranger and built a wide circle of friends who loved her dearly.

More than anything, Frances treasured being with her family. She especially loved hosting holiday gatherings—opening her home, feeding everyone, and filling the day with love and togetherness. True to her joyful spirit, she loved to eat and never missed a meal—especially if it meant sharing it with family or friends.

Frances was deeply loved, and her absence will be felt every day. While we mourn, we also give thanks for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends as she begins her eternal rest, reunited with her husband, parents, brother, and daughter.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Blake at New Braunfels for the love, patience, and care they showed Frances during her 2½ years as a resident. The family also thanks Elegant Hospice Care nurses for the comfort and support they provided during her last weeks.

FUNERAL SERVICES

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, May 12th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Angelus Funeral Home, 1119 N. St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, Texas 78215. The Rosary will follow at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be offered on Wednesday, May 13th at 9:30 a.m. at El Carmen Catholic Church, 18555 Leal Road, San Antonio, Texas 78221. Burial at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery will follow.