The Queen of Sass, Strength, and Endless Love

Our beautiful, bold, and one-of-a-kind mother, Nicksa Pagan Ortiz, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

Born on September 6, 1955, in Lorain, Nicksa was the definition of love and spunk. She was the proud mother of six children-five daughters and one son - each one a reflection of her sharp wit, strong will, and soft heart (even if she'd never admit that last part out loud).

Nicksa wasn't just a mother; she was the mother . The boss. The comedian. The protector. The chancla holder. She ruled her house with love, laughter, and just the right amount of attitude. If you came to her home, you'd better come hungry, respectful, and ready to hear the truth-because she'd give it to you straight, with a side of rice and beans.

She was the neighborhood and family babysitter, raising not only her own but half of everyone else's kids, too. Her living room was never quiet, her kitchen never empty, and her heart never closed. Every child she watched became family, and every family member knew that when Wela said jump, you didn't ask how high—you just jumped.

Nicksa was bold, hilarious, and had a comeback ready for every situation. She loved fiercely and protected her family like a lioness. She didn't sugarcoat, she didn't fake it, and she didn't hold grudges—but she would remind you what you did, just in case you forgot.

As the years went on, her greatest joy came from her growing family. She was a proud grandmother and great-grandmother, spoiling her babies with hugs, love and a little attitude when they needed it. She loved deeply, laughed loudly, and lived fully.

Nicksa now joins her husband, Domingo "Mingo" Ortiz Sr. She leaves behind her loving children: Gladys (Antwayne), Nicksa "Nicky", Domingo Jr. "Poch" (Andrea), Damarita (Sonny), Vivian (LeQuay), and Alexandria; along with her 14 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, sisters Josephine "Coqui" (Wayne) Nardolillo of Nevada, Debbie Head of Lorain, and countless nieces, nephews, and friends who adored her.

In addition to her parents, Nicksa was preceded in death by her brothers Raymond Ramos, Ricardo Pagan, Julio Pagan Jr., and her sister Carmen Ayala, Elizabeth Pagan and Leonilda Negron of Puerto Rico.

The Ortiz family will receive family and friends on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at House of Praise International Church, 4321 Elyria Ave, Lorain, with visitation starting at 11 AM until the time of services at 1 PM. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved Mingo at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.

Nicksa lived life her way- loud, loving, and full of attitude. She left us her sayings, her strength, and her sass—and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Andras Crematory & Funeral Home, Lorain.