On the morning of 9/11/18, Carmela (Carmen) Ortiz Garcia, 87, was called home to be with our Lord. She lived in Long Branch, NJ for over 60 years. Born in 1931, Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico to father Juan De Dios Ortiz and mother Francisca Cruz.

She is predeceased by sons Edwin & Daniel, and survived by three daughters and their spouses, Donna Sanchez, Maritsa and Jose Alamo and Jyl and John Smentkowski. She is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren and 6 step great grandchildren.

She loved life, family, friends, her plants and food. Ask her to lunch, dinner or any gathering and she would say what time are you picking me up. Her wit and sense of humor had many with either a huge smile or in thunderous laughter. Her friends were sincerely cherished. Her love of and loyalty to her family is irreplaceable and will always be a blessing to the family. Her passing leaves a hole in our hearts that can never be filled. She will forever be loved and missed. Mom your family and friends all love you. Rest now, in peace.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 13, 2018 from 4 - 7 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch. The funeral procession will leave at 10:30 am from the funeral home with a graveside service at 11:00 am at Glenwood Cemetery in West Long Branch on Friday, September 14. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence, light a memorial candle or make a memorial donation by selecting the appropriate tab.