Elizabeth Ortiz Guzman

Elizabeth Ortiz Guzman, 63, passed away peacefully on 11th of October, 2024. Born in Brownsville, Liz was a vibrant spirit known for her kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends and students.

Throughout her life, Liz cherished her role as a sister and aunt. She is survived by her four sisters: Sandra, Cindy, Nancy, and Brenda, and her brother, Michael. Her niece, Anna Marie, and nephew, Anthony, and her beloved dogs, Princess and Purdie.

We will forever hold dear the memories of Liz, who brought joy and laughter into their lives.

A passionate educator, Liz dedicated the majority of her career to teaching, where she inspired countless students. Her work in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) helped shape the futures of many young individuals, instilling in them the values of leadership and community service. Her students often spoke of her engaging lessons and the genuine care she showed, leaving a lasting impression that extended beyond the classroom. Beyond her professional life, Liz was a fantastic and lifelong friend to many. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people, fostering deep and meaningful relationships that lasted for decades. Whether it was through late-night conversations, shared laughter, or simple acts of kindness, Liz made her friends feel valued and understood. Her home was always a welcoming space, where friends could gather, share stories, and find solace in her infectious spirit.

Liz celebrated her friends’ successes as if they were her own, always the first to offer encouragement or a helping hand during challenging times. She was the friend who remembered birthdays, made thoughtful gestures, and consistently reached out just to check in. Her unwavering loyalty and support were hallmarks of her friendships, and many recall her as a confidante and a source of strength.

Liz’s sense of humor was infectious, and her ability to find joy in the little things brought light to those around her. Friends and family remember her as a person who could make them laugh even in difficult times, and her warmth created a sense of belonging wherever she went.

In honor of Liz, we invite all who knew her to wear green during the viewing, reflecting her deep love for the color. Liz will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Liz. Your spirit, kindness, and infectious sense of humor will forever remain in our hearts.

We would like to thank Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville, the many nurses, ICU departments, Dr. Karkoutly, Dr. Barba, Dr. Shekenburg, Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Ortiz, & Cyndi Sulewski, for their excellent care of our sister. We would also like to thank Amedisys Hospice for their gentle, compassionate, dignified end of life care.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, with recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m., on Friday, October 18, 2024, the chapel opens at 8:00 a.m., funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. at The Lord of Divine Mercy Catholic Church. Services conclude at the end of the funeral mass.

Pallbearers will be Michael Ortiz, Anthony Alvarez, Carlos Quintanilla, Hector Zamarripa, Carlos “Sonny” Quintanilla, and Bryan Quintanilla.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tony & Annie Ortiz Memorial Scholarship Fund, a cause close to her heart.

Services are under the guidance of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Flower Shop. 657 Springmart Blvd., Brownsville, Texas. (956) 350-8485.