Francis Ortego

Krotz Springs – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. for Mr. Francis Ortego on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church of Krotz Springs. Father Henry Antony will celebrate the Mass. Rite of Committal and interment will follow in the St. Anthony Catholic Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, in the Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home Chapel in Krotz Springs, beginning at 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. A Rosary Service will be recited at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home. 

Pallbearers will be Blake Johnson, Adam Ortego, Taylor Ortego, Tyler Ortego, Jacob Richard and Frankie Cottano, III. Honorary pallbearers will be Craig Guidry, Harley Duplechain, Tara Guidry, Gunnar Johnson, Gabriel Cottano, Sawyer Cottano, Caleb Dupre, Sr. and Caleb Dupre II.

Francis was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great grandfather and friend who passed away on November 6, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on December 7, 1937, and was a man of integrity and dedication, leaving a legacy that will forever be remembered by those who knew him.

For over 20 years, Francis worked as a carpenter in construction and was a member of Local Union 1098. Francis further distinguished his career by serving as a pumper at the Valero Oil Refinery for 15 years, a role he held until his retirement in 2000 at the age of 63. His pride in his work was matched only by his pride in his service; he was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and carried that sense of honor throughout his life.

A devoted parishioner of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Krotz Springs, Louisiana, Francis found both community and solace within his faith. He often reflected on the strength and comfort it provided him and his family throughout the years.

Francis was an avid lover of the outdoors, finding joy in hunting and fishing with his wife. He cherished many weekends at his camp at the 2 O'clock Hunting Club. He also enjoyed traveling and visiting local casinos, always seeking new adventures and experiences.

He is survived by his sons, Robert Ortego and wife, Felicia; and Ronald Ortego and wife, Trisha; his two daughters, Jan Ortego Johnson, and Joy Ortego Guidry and husband, Craig; two sisters-in-law, Verna Ortego and Joyce Burleigh; 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.

Francis is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sharon Higdon Ortego; his parents, Gilbert Joseph Ortego, Sr. and Weverly Elizabeth Soileau Ortego; his son-in-law, Chris Johnson; his brothers, Leroy "Buddy" Ortego, Gilbert J. Ortego, Jr. and his wife, Wilda, and Kirtley J. Ortego and his wife, Eloise; his sister, Joyce Ortego and her husband, Carol; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Sullivan Higdon and Ellen Ardoin Higdon.

Francis leaves behind a legacy of strength, loyalty, and love that will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of Hospice of Acadiana and the Calcutta House, Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, and Dr. Patrick Gillespie and his staff for the wonderful care which was given to Mr. Francis.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Mr. Francis’ name to Hospice of Acadiana - The Calcutta House, St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Krotz Springs, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Krotz Springs, 239 8th Street, Krotz Springs, LA 70750, (337-942-2638), has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.