Albuquerque, NM – The literary world mourns the passing of Rainy Dawn Ortiz, a celebrated poet and esteemed beadwork artist, who died on Wednesday, December 6, at the age of 50. Ortiz’s distinguished works found a place in prestigious publications such as the Kenyon Review and Cutthroat, a Journal of the Arts.
Rainy Dawn Ortiz was the daughter of the acclaimed American poet, musician, playwright, and author, Joy Harjo.
A viewing to pay respects to Rainy Dawn Ortiz is scheduled for Wednesday, December 13th, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at French Funerals & Cremations – 9300 Golf Course Rd NW Albuquerque NM 87114. Following the viewing, a private reception will be held for family members. For further details, contact MamaRain23@gmail.com. In lieu of gifts, floral tributes are welcomed and can be sent to the funeral home on Wednesday, December 13th, starting at 9 a.m.
Krista Chico posted on Facebook,
“My loving mommyCelebrate the life, cherish the memories. Rainy Dawn OrtizJuly 5th 1973- December 6th 2023.A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.Viewing will be Wednesday, December 13th 2023. 2-4pmFrench Funerals & Cremations9300 Golf Course Rd NW Albuquerque NM 87114A private reception to follow for family. Please reach out to MamaRain23@gmail.com for more information.
If you’d like, flowers are appreciated and can be sent to the funeral home on Wednesday the 13th starting at 9am.Donation details to be announced”
Notably, Joy Harjo, a multifaceted artist and Rainy Dawn Ortiz’s mother, holds the distinction of being the 23rd Poet Laureate of the United States, marking the first time a Native American achieved this honor. Harjo, a member of the Muscogee Nation, is a pivotal figure in the resurgence of Native American literary contributions in the latter part of the 20th century.
After completing her undergraduate studies at the University of New Mexico in 1976, Joy Harjo pursued a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Iowa’s creative writing department. Additionally, she attended the Institute of American Indian Arts after her undergraduate studies.
