Anna Marie Orta

After a brief but courageous battle with an aggressive cancer, Anna Marie “Chata” Orta, age 67, of Waco, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on March 25, 1959, in Waco, Texas, to the late Fred R. Orta Sr. and Tommie H. Orta. She attended Waco schools and, after 25 years of dedicated service, retired from Quality Care Nursing Home in April 2024.

Chata grew up with three older brothers, who quickly learned that she was just as tough—if not tougher—than they were. She shared a special bond with her late grandmother, Beatrice P. Hernandez, whose strength and resilience helped shape Chata into the devoted mother and woman she became. Known for her strong will and independent spirit, Chata carried traits that seemed to run deep through generations of her family.

As a teenager, she loved dancing to Tejano music—though only after taking care of her younger sisters and finishing her responsibilities at home. Throughout her life, she found joy in the simple things: a cold Dr Pepper, working on puzzles, playing Happy Color on her phone, and anything involving unicorns. Her greatest passion, however, was tending to her yard and spending meaningful time with her children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents; and her brothers, Ernest Orta Sr., Paul Orta Sr., and Gilbert Orta Sr.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Angel Orta and wife Veronica, Mary Ann Orta, and Tiffany Johnson and husband Wayne; her grandchildren, Lea Marie Orta, Aiyanna Degrate, Angel Orta Jr., Wayne Johnson Jr., and Emma Orta; her brother, Fred Orta Jr. and wife Lois; her sisters, Elizabeth “Liz” Orta and Yolanda “Yoli” Gongora and husband Fabian; her sisters-in-law, Lilia Orta and Cynthia Orta; as well as a host of nephews and nieces.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff and doctors at Ascension Providence ICU for the compassionate care they provided. A special thank you is also given to her sisters, Liz and Yoli, whose unwavering support helped carry the family through a difficult and uncertain time.

Viewing and funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Connally/Compton Funeral Directors. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., with the funeral service immediately following, officiated by Pastor Joe Flores.