Maria Ortega Guerrero

Maria Ortega Guerrero, 95, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 24, 2026. She was born on April 9, 1930, in San Benito, Texas, to the late Florencio Ortega and Isabel Hernandez.

Maria later moved from San Benito to Joliet, Illinois, where she made her permanent home and raised her family. She worked for many years with the Joliet Public School District, where she was lovingly known by many generations of students as the school lunch lady and fondly remembered as the best tortillas maker. Her kindness, dedication, and warm spirit touched countless lives.

She also worked for Rousonelos Farms in Plainfield, Illinois, where she was valued for her strong work ethic and commitment.

Maria will be greatly missed and forever loved by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Florencio Ortega and Isabel Hernandez; her beloved husband, Basilio V. Guerrero; children: Ricardo Guerrero, Mary Ann Guerrero and one granddaughter, Norma G. Hamilton.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Gregorio Guerrero, Yolanda Pedraza, Manuel Guerrero, Reynaldo (Nancy) Guerrero, Jose Luis Guerrero, Sylvia Guerrero, Nora (Guero) Guerrero, Rolando (Monique) Guerrero, and Rosa (Brian) Simik; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her cherished friend, Flor Estela Martinez.

Funeral services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers contributions in Maria’s name may be made to Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet,IL 60431.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Lightways Hospice for their compassionate care and support.