Frances Ann Ortega

Frances Ann Ortega, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the age of 68. She was born in Phoenix on March 17, 1958, to Carlos Sr. and Juanita Castaneda and was raised in Glendale, Arizona.

Frances graduated from Apollo High School and continued her education at Glendale Community College. She dedicated her career to serving children, families, and her community as a bilingual education teacher’s aide. Throughout her career, Frances worked for the Murphy Elementary, Osborn Elementary, and Peoria Elementary School Districts, and Friendly House. Her work was especially meaningful in supporting bilingual and migrant children and families, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education, service, and her community.

Frances concluded her career as a Home Base Educator with the Catholic Social Service Westside Head Start program. Throughout her many years as an educator, she was known for her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the children and families she served. Her work with the migrant community was particularly close to her heart and remained an important part of her life’s service.

Frances is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years, Fernando Ortega Sr.; her daughter, Jacqueline S. Ortega-Avila, and son-in-law, Jose Luis Avila Jr.; and her sons, Fernando Ortega Jr. and Nicholas A. Ortega.

She is also survived by her five cherished grandchildren, Jose Luis III, Isabella Mia, Sofia Quetzali, Cristian Joel, and Fernando III; her mother, Juanita Castaneda; her brothers, Carlos Jr. and Juan; and her sister, Barbara. She is preceded in death by her father, Carlos Castaneda Sr.

Above all, Frances was deeply devoted to her family. She brought love, warmth, kindness, and joy to the lives of those around her. Her loving spirit, devotion to her family, compassion for others, and the countless lives she touched throughout her years of service will never be forgotten.

“Forever in our hearts, forever in our memories, and forever loved.”

Services will be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 4715 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012.

Visitation: 9:00 a.m. (PST)

Rosary: 9:30 a.m.

Mass: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

https://www.sfxphx.org/livestream

Interment will follow at Resthaven Park Cemetery, 6450 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301.

Reception will be held at Orabella Banquet Hall, 6744 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85303.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Catholic Charities Westside Head Start.