Rose Anna Ortell

Age 84 of Horseheads, NY. She was born August 31st, 1941 in Elmira, NY, the daughter of the late Reverend L. Paul and Hilda (Bowie) Rockwell. She passed away Monday, April 20th, 2026 with her children by her side. In addition to her parents, Rose Anna was predeceased by her loving husband and soulmate of 51 years, John J. Ortell. She is survived by her daughter Andrea (Allen) DeLosa of Gillett, Pa. and son, John Paul (Steve) Ortell of Elmira, Also, she is survived by her adoring grandchildren: Madeline, Allen Jr., and Johnny DeLosa. She had many lifelong friendships including her special friend, Carolyn Morse of Elmira.

Rose Anna was a graduate of Elmira College with a Bachelors and Masters degrees in Education. She was an elementary teacher in the Elmira School District for over 30 years. She enjoyed many hobbies including painting, crafting, needlework, antiquing, and annual Summer beach trips to Maine. She was devout in her faith her entire life and portrayed that throughout her lifetime. She adored watching her Grandchildren grow up over the years and spending time with them. As a Mom, she was like no other, kind, loving, and generous. She will be dearly missed.

Family and friends are invited to visit Walter J. Kent Funeral Home at 858 Lake St., Elmira on Thursday, April 23rd from 4-6 pm for calling hours. A funeral service will follow at 6 pm. Committal prayers and interment will take place at St. Peter and Paul's Cemetery on Friday, April 24th at 1pm. Donations to St. Jude's Childrens Hospital may be made in her memory.