Mary Theresa (Stagi) Ortega

Mary Theresa "Teri" Ortega passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 23, 2026 at the age of 83. She was born on December 7, 1942 to John and Mary Stagi in San Jose, California. She attended Willow Glen High School, and later in life, Bryman College where she began her professional career as a medical office manager, working for private physicians, then Abbott labs and retiring as a supervisor with Santa Clara County Valley Medical Center.

Teri married the love of her life, Rudolph "Rudy" Ortega, sharing 23 loving years until his passing in 1988. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, reading and gardening; creating bountiful vegetable and beautiful flower gardens. As an imaginative and accomplished cook, she taught and inspired all that ate and enjoyed her food. Teri embraced adventure, travel and the love of the outdoors enjoying camping, fishing, and spending time on the beach.

She had a light-hearted sense of humor; was an outgoing, outspoken and fiercely independent woman whose vibrant life left a lasting impression on her friends and family and she will be deeply missed.

She cherished all animals, especially her dog Bella, whose love, loyalty and companionship brought her warmth, happiness and comfort.

Teri was preceded in death by her son, Michael "Mike" Ortega (9/27/22). She is survived by her daughters, Amber Tonkin (Rayme) and Sabrina Ortega (Robert). Grandchildren, Jasmine Allen, Shayla Ortega, Anthony Ortega, and great grandchildren Damien and Adrien. Siblings, Geraldine Ortega (John), John Stagi, Jr. (Iris), George Stagi (Kathy), Mark Stagi (Sue) and Veronica Romero (Lucio).

In lieu of flowers, donations to Town Cats of Morgan Hill or All Animal Rescue & Friends (AARF) will be appreciated.

A celebration of life will be held with friends and family to honor her spirit.

Published in Morgan Hill Times · April 14, 2026