Martin Ortiz, Sr.

Martin Ortiz, Sr., 68, of Columbus, GA died Sunday, February 27, 2022 at St. Francis Hospital.

Whether you knew him as Marty, Dad, Papi, or Gene Simmons, Martin Ortiz, Sr. was a legend. His loves in life were his family and friends, playing music, and ministering to others.

A visitation will be held at the Ortiz residence on Saturday, March 5 from 12-4 PM. The address is 5812 Old Dominion Rd. Columbus, GA 31909. This is an informal drop-by gathering to visit with family and share stories of the legendary Marty “Papi” Ortiz.

A Celebration of Life to be announced in the near future.

Marty was a loving husband and an incredible dad.Carol, Martin, Maria, Robby, Josh, and Chris miss him dearly, but will remember the jokes, hugs, kisses, and butt pinches that were his trademark.

Prince once said that “music is the ultimate power, love is simply the message and the truth shall set you free.” Music was one of Marty’s two great gifts in this world. He used music as a safe space to be free from the world for a while. Whether he played classical, worship, rock, country, or dance music, he truly loved every minute of it. Marty was a polished perfectionist and an infectious, humor-filled bandmate. While he always considered all bands that he played in as family, he greatly valued his time spent playing in the M&M Band alongside his son, Marty Jr. and was beyond proud of the legacy he was leaving behind.

The other gift was Marty’s servant heart. Ministering to the needs of others is what gave him great joy in life. Many times, Marty and Carol bought Christmas for other families; brought food to people in need; donated to local organizations, charities, and churches; opened their home; and simply just loved on people, friend and stranger alike.

To say we will miss Marty is a vast understatement. We will remember the great times and the even better one-liners. We will hear the songs and see him dancing. We will carry on and continue to help others just like he did.

In lieu of flowers we would like donations to be made to the American Cancer Society of Columbus, GA and Highland Kids Academy at North Highland Church.