Roger Ernest Ortega

Roger E. Ortega passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026.

Roger was born on March 9, 1941, to Edilia and Alfonso Ortega in Questa, NM. He was a lifelong member of the Questa community. He retired from the Moly Mine after 30 plus years.

Anyone who knew Roger knew he loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and all-around outdoorsmen. He was a Jack of all Trades. He had a talent for carpentry and auto body work.

He was married to his wife Lillian Ortega of 65 years. He worked hard to provide for his family, and family was very important to him. He raised three children. Lolita Gallegos of Las Vegas, NM, Leroy Ortega of Questa, NM and Jaime Newsome of Ruidoso, NM

He is preceded in death by his parents Edilia and Alfonso Ortega, Sister Claudia LaFore, and Brother Damian Ortega.

He is survived by his wife Lillian Ortega, daughter Lolita (Gilbert), son Leroy Ortega (Brenda), Jaime Newsome (Kim).

Grandchildren, Brianna Ortega, Carlos Amador, Amber Ortega, Kathryn Holder (Shawn Holder), and Gabriel Newsome. Great-grandchildren, Azaleah and Ellyanna; siblings Ernest Ortega (Joann), Maryann Sanchez (Steve), Joseph Ortega (Elizabeth); and many other cousins, nieces and nephews.

Roger will be truly missed by many. He always had a joke, an ear to listen to and advise when needed. He was the life of the party everywhere he went.

Rosary will be recited on Wednesday May 6, 2026 at 6:30pm at St. Anthonys Catholic Church in Questa. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday May 7, 2026 at 10am at St. Anthonys Catholic Church in Questa. Burial will be held at the Angel Fire Veterans Cemetery Monday, May 11, 2026 at 1:30pm.

The family of Roger Ernest Ortega has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. www.devargastaos.com 1-866-657-4019