Raquel Ortega Eulogy

This is the eulogy I wrote for my grandmother, Raquel Ortega, wife of my grandfather Jorge Ortega. I wanted to share what I had written for her so everyone could read just how loving and full of faith she was.

Thank you all again for taking the time to honor and celebrate the life of our loved one Raquel.

More than anything, Raquel loved our savior and had an unshakable faith in Christ. I recall a time where we were driving down a treacherous road, and grandma prayed the entire way down to ask our our safety so we didn’t tumble down the mountain to our dooms. I am sure the only reason whey I am here today is due to her sincere prayer for safety. She helped instill the love I have in our Christ by leading by example. Her faith was such an integral part of her life. Whenever I would leave for a trip, I would make it a point to visit her where she would bless me and say a prayer of love and safety for me. Her love for our redeemer was such an example for all.

When thinking of my grandma, the emotion and the feeling I always get is love. Raquel loved all. Raquel loved her three children, her three grandchildren, her three great grand children, her friends, her neighbors, all those who entered her home, and most of all her husband Jorge. There isn’t one person who entered her home who didn’t immediately fall in love with Raquel and her home. Everyone who entered wanted for naught. All left with a full belly, a hearty laugh, a great “I love you”, and an overwhelming need to come back to visit soon as she always asked.

I think that is the thing I will miss the most. The warm feeling that we all got when walking into her home. Raquel made a home that welcomed all. I remember the first time I brought my wife Liz to meet grandma, the last thing she said to her was I love you and come back anytime to visit me. So much of what she taught me was what unconditional love is.

Even though we are heart broken, I am reminded by words provided by Father Andrew, and that death is the edge of our vision. In these words I take comfort, because even though it’s beyond my vision I know my tita is happy. She is reunited with the love of her life, unburdened by the woes of today. I know she is watching over me making sure that I stay out of trouble and exudes her love to everyone. I miss her so much, but my grief is lifted from me knowing this is the plan. She wouldn’t want me to cry, but she would want me to be happy for her and for us all to continue to live life to it’s fullest and cherish every moment we have with each other.