Helen Ortega – We Celebrate You!

I miss this sweet lady.

Her name is Helen Ortega and she went to be with the Lord on April 27, 2015. As an Ex-Jehovah’s Witness, she dedicated many years to teaching bible studies to those desiring to learn biblical truths. She was a spiritual mother to me and several other women. Her knowledge of Scripture and ability to recall & quote was amazing.

She supported me through some of my most difficult times. She taught me about Jehovah Witnesses and how to share with them the “true” message of Jesus Christ. She adamantly believed in and demonstrated loving others unconditionally.  We spent many hours on the phone talking about life here and the anticipated life with Jesus.  My sweet Helen is no longer a call away and my heart has a deep void; but I know that she is filled with the joy of being in the presence of her Savior.

You know – God is so good. Somehow, I knew that Helen would be leaving this place soon. She was 92 years young and had been a faithful servant for His kingdom. My concern was if anyone would know how to contact me if something happened to her. I had this fear that one day I would call to speak with her and she wouldn’t answer. Or someone would answer and break the news to me. But this Jesus that I love so much continues to be so very gracious towards me. It’s the small things that He does that always bring tears to my eyes. I received a phone call on a Sunday night from Helen’s daughter. She asked if I was Tracy Knight and I responded, “Yes”.  “I’m calling to let you know that Helen is in the hospital and not doing well. She wanted me to go through her phonebook, find your name & call you.”  At that moment, I broke down but I knew that I needed to see her first thing on Monday. I did and it was my last smile, hug and conversation with her. I felt blessed to know that God so graciously arranged our final time together here on earth.

A few years back, I was led to interview Helen about her journey as a Jehovah’s Witness and how she came to leave the organization. Truthfully, the taping was a surprise to express how much I loved and appreciated her for being a wonderful inspiration in my life. And now, I’m so glad that I made a video because it will be cherished and her testimony will continue to touch lives forever.