Jesse Ortiz III has been granted his wings and called home. Mass will be 10 a.m. Monday at St. Francis Catholic Church. Burial will be in Waco Memorial Park. Rosary will be 7 p.m. Sunday at OakCrest Funeral Home.

In his life Jesse never met anyone that wasn’t a friend. He made it possible for many people to move forward. He was one of the original founding members of MAYO (Mexican American Youth Organization) in Central Texas. He also was one of the original members of Waco Dart Association. He loved all music especially Tejano and the blues. He toured with many Tejano bands and made many friends during his time as the co-owner of the Abraxas Club.

He is proceeded in death by grandparents Jesus Ortiz and Barbara Ortiz, and parents Jesse Espinoza and Georgia G. Espinoza.

He is survived by his son Jesse Martinez his wife Nina, granddaughter Alicia Martinez, grandsons Benito Carrizales, Juan Martinez, and Joe Martinez, whom he loved dearly . Brother Steve Espinoza his wife Alma, sister Mary Martinez, Pole Ballesteros, Lupe Ortiz, Lucy Jimenez and husband Willie Jimenez, Barbara, Esther, Mary Lou Martinez, several nieces and nephews and several great nieces and nephews whom he loved and cherished.

Pallbearers will be Paz Espinoza, Mito Espinoza, Mitch Utsey, Paul Ballesteros, Stevie Martinez, Thomas Lopez. Honorary Pallbearers: Johnny Ballesteros, Dan Franco, Manny Doc Perez, Benito Carrizales, Juan Martinez, Joe Martinez, and Ralph Lopez.

We would like to thank Michelle, Becky and all hospice staff for the love and respect shown to our father Jesse Ortiz III. A special thank you to Leticia Cisneros, Mary Lou Martinez and Willie Fuentes for staying by his side and showing their love and loyalty.