Rafael Rios Ortiz 1948-2025
YOUNGSTOWN — Rafael Rios Ortiz passed away peacefully on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a long illness. He was 77 years old.
Rafael was born Jan. 15, 1948, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, the son of Rafael Rios Torres and Ines Maria Ortiz Tellado. Rafael moved to Youngstown in 1990.
He was a hardworking and dedicated man. He spent his career as a landscaper and was a devoted member of the Youngstown Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Rafael had a deep love for music and was a gifted musician, able to play many instruments with passion and skill. His music brought joy to those around him and will remain a cherished part of his legacy.
His hobbies include gardening, raising chickens, spending time with family and participating in church activities and events.
He will be forever remembered by his five beloved children, Maria Ines Rios (Jorge Martinez) of Youngstown, Saul Rios (Melissa Annett Rios Ortiz) of Tennessee, Dalila Rios of Tennessee, Neida L. Rios (Gilbert Andujar) of Youngstown and Rafael J. Rios Jr. of Youngstown. Rafael also leaves behind five adored grandchildren, Yissel, Estevan and Abigail Martinez and Mikael and Kiana Andujar; as well as one precious great-grandchild, Messiah Armani Andujar. He also is survived by 11 siblings, Thomas, Otilio, Iluminada, Santo, Celso, Migdalia, Haydee, Luis Manuel, Gladys, Mildred and Nancy Rios; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and two uncles.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Lydia Rios Ortiz; his wife, Juana Maria Ortiz Ortiz; his parents, Ines Maria Ortiz Tellado and Rafael Rios Torres; and two great-grandchildren, Mikael Armani Andujar and Zanyelise Isabella Andujar.
Rafael’s warm spirit, musical talent and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
There will be funeral services at noon Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, at the Youngstown Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church, 155 Lansdowne Blvd., Youngstown, OH 44506.
Friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of the services at the church.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman. Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.
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