Jorge Xavier Cortez

It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that Jorge's children—Pete, Deborah, Christina, Paloma, Cariño, Alexandra, and Sol Jorge—announce the passing of our beloved father. Jorge departed this life on November 11, surrounded by his loving family, including his children, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the mothers of his children, Barbara and Rosa.

He is survived by his children: son, George Pete Cortez, his spouse Laura Treviño Cortez, their children Sarah Elizabeth Cortez and George Peter Cortez II; daughter Deborah Ann Cortez; daughter Barbara Christina Cortez, her spouse Jesse De La Fuente, their children William De La Fuente-Cortez, Christopher De La Fuente-Cortez and his daughter Mia Rose Tellez-Cortez, Noah Cortez-De La Fuente, Isabella Cortez-De La Fuente; daughter Paloma Cortez Jones, her spouse Matthew Jones, their children Emilia DeVoy Jones and Xavier Matthew Cruz Jones; daughter Jasmin Cariño Cortez-Haass, her spouse Chip Haass, children Camilla Rebecca Haass and Chase Alexander Haass; daughter Alexandra Cortez Rothenberg, her spouse Jason Rothenberg, their children Phillip James Rothenberg and Eliza Rose Rothenberg; and son Sol Jorge Xavier Cortez. He is also survived by his brother David Cortez, sister Rosalinda Cortez Pouya; and brother Ruben Cortez; along with many nieces and nephews.

Jorge was preceded in death by his parents, father Pedro “Pete” V. Cortez and mother Cruz Llanes Cortez; and brother Manuel Cortez.

Jorge served in the Air Force from 1961-1965 and graduated from St. Mary’s University with a BBA in Marketing. He was not only an inspirational figure in our family of restaurants but also a cherished mentor to many. His dedication to hospitality went beyond serving our guests; he was devoted to uplifting team members across every level of the organization, welcoming all as part of his extended family. His support and guidance shaped countless careers, and his unique leadership style—anchored in faith and vision—set the standard for what it means to lead with heart. Jorge was a deeply spiritual man, and his profound faith guided his every step.

An artist at heart, Jorge’s vision for our restaurants brought them to life, from the murals of Mi Tierra to every thoughtfully selected detail that honors our Mexican heritage. He was also the inventor of sizzling fajitas, which enhanced the sensory experience for diners, and created what is now a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine.

Easily recognized in his signature red apron, white hat, guayabera, and slacks, Jorge was an icon in the city, embodying the spirit of San Antonio’s Latino heritage. His love of art and cultura extended beyond our family business, and he played an instrumental role in the creation of San Antonio's Zona Cultural, a legacy formally established by City Ordinance. Through this, he championed the cultural assets of our beloved city, envisioning a seamless connection from Main Plaza to El Mercado, joining the Riverwalk to the heart of San Antonio’s heritage. Milam Park was especially dear to him, where he envisioned a communal space where families could gather and celebrate the city’s vibrant culture. As a patron of the arts, Jorge also championed his dear friend Jesse Treviño’s renowned mural at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital, a powerful symbol of hope and healing that embodies the beauty and strength of our community.

His legacy is woven into the fabric of La Familia Cortez and serves as an inspiration to all of us committed to preserving the traditions and community he championed. Like his father before him, Jorge had a deep love for his Mexican American heritage and recently achieved a personal dream, becoming a proud Mexican citizen. His devotion to San Antonio’s Latino Cultura and his dedication to not only preserving it but promoting it have left an indelible mark on both our business and our city.

Please join us in extending our deepest condolences to the Cortez family during this difficult time. We will share further details on memorial arrangements in the coming days.

May Jorge’s spirit continue to guide us in all that we do.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Alameda Conservancy

La Familia Cortez invites family and friends to a visitation on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.at Porter Loring Mortuary, at 1101 McCullough Ave.

A funeral procession will depart Porter Loring Mortuary on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. to San Fernando Cathedral for a 10:00 a.m. funeral mass.

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