Louise Evlyne Turpin Ortiz

Louise Evlyne Turpin Ortiz, 82, went to her heavenly reward on Friday, April 14, 2023. Her husband of 61 years, Jimmy Benny Ortiz, her sister, Jeanette Jones, and her loving daughter, Teressa Renee Kelley and son-in-law Jim Kelley survive her.  She is also survived and will be greatly missed by her two granddaughters, Jennifer McManus and Kimberly Thompson, along with Kimberly’s husband Toby Thompson and two great-granddaughters, Winry Thompson and Sloan Thompson, and a host of family and friends. A lover of animals, she is also survived by her beloved dogs, Katie Scarlett and JJ, and her bird, Precious. Her parents and two older brothers preceded her in death. Louise, called Evlyne by some, and affectionately named “Lil Dynamite” or “Miss Daisy” by family, was born in Bedford, Virginia on November 16, 1940 to Fred and Louise Turpin and was the youngest of four children. After marrying her husband, she lived briefly in New Jersey before settling in Charleston, South Carolina with her family, where she lived a rich and full life. Her favorite colors were yellow, and Clemson Tiger purple and orange.  She loved everything Hamrick’s sold. She had a deep appreciation for sarcastic and witty sayings like “kiss my grits.” Her laugh was infectious and she enjoyed reading romance novels and caring for her Christmas Cactuses. All who knew her will miss her generous spirit and brave soul.  She had no problem speaking her mind and keeping lemons out of her sweet tea. A service to remember her life will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at Burch-Messier Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut St., Bedford with Rev. Mike Jones officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her name to the American Cancer Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or Charleston Animal Society. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.