Audrey Ann Ortego, 83, of Sulphur, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026. She was born on March 10, 1943, in Pine Prairie, Louisiana, to Elby and Laura Fontenot Ortego.

Audrey was a woman of strong Catholic faith who found joy in serving others and sharing her many gifts. In her younger years while living in Texas, she played the organ during Mass. After moving to Sulphur, she sang in her church choir.

Audrey had a lifelong love of learning, earning four college degrees. She was also a talented artist who enjoyed painting beautiful oil paintings and was learning watercolor painting. She loved quilting, knitting, and sewing, and generously shared her talents by teaching free knitting classes to many women.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Laura Powderly and husband Johnny of Golden, Colorado; grandchildren, Cole Powderly and Katy Powderly; brothers, David Ortego and wife Cindi, and James Ortego and wife Betty; sisters, Juanita Dorne and husband Cliff, and Anita Mitchell and husband James "Mitch"; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Audrey joins in Heaven her parents Elby and Laura Fontenot Ortego.

Audrey accepted her failing health with the same dignity and grace with which she lived her life.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Holly Hill Nursing Home in Sulphur for the excellent care Audrey received, and to Heart of Hospice for their compassionate care and comfort during her final days.

In accordance with Audrey's wishes, she will be cremated then laid to rest in the Ortego Cemetery.