Ana Celia Ortiz

Ana Celia Ortiz, aged 84, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Lancaster Nursing and Rehabilitation. Born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, she was the cherished daughter of the late Juan Ortiz and María Antonia Acevedo. A devoted member of San Juan Bautista Catholic Church, Ana lived a life defined by faith, kindness, and service. She welcomed parishioners warmly in her role as a greeter, lent her voice to the church choir, and brought comfort to the ill through her visits. She also served in the ministry of communion, embodying the values of her faith with grace and humility. Ana dedicated her professional life to the School District of Lancaster until her retirement. Beyond her work, she cherished family above all else, delighting in every opportunity to gather with her loved ones. Known affectionately as "Ana Banana," she had a gift for bringing people together with her delicious cooking, a legacy that will live on through the many treasured memories her family holds dear. Her sparkling personality, expressed through her whistle, humming, and singing, brought joy to every space she entered. Ana was known for her impeccable style, her nails and hair always perfectly attended to, a reflection of her vibrant spirit. She found simple joy in her mornings of coffee, cheese, and bread, and savored time spent playing dominoes and cards. Ana’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith. She is survived by her children, Ana Sierra, Hilda Sierra, Sandra Sierra, Marie Hernández, Juan Umpierre, and Angie Morales; 16 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; her sisters María Ortiz and Virginia Colon; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents as well as her brother and two sisters. The family extends an invitation to all whose lives Ana touched to join in celebrating her life. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 11 a.m. at The Groffs Family Funeral Home, 528 W. Orange Street, Lancaster, PA. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, 1916 Lincoln Highway East Lancaster, PA 17602.