Joe Cortez

Jose Cortez, a devoted servant of God and beloved member of his community, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in Pueblo, Colorado, on April 25, 1931, Jose was one of ten children born to Consuelo (Arriola) and Jesus Cortez. He was one of three sons and had seven sisters. In the 1950s, Jose moved to California with his beloved wife, P. Stella Cortez. The couple settled in Colton, where they built their life together and raised their family. Jose and Stella were blessed with three sons and one daughter, who in turn gave them 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Stella went to be with the Lord in 1993. Jose served his country in a civilian role, working in the motor pool with the United States Air Force. He proudly retired from Norton Air Force Base after many years of dedicated service. More than anything, Jose was a man of deep faith. He gave his heart to the Lord and began his journey of ministry in the early 1960s, combining evangelism with his love of music. He ministered to the homeless in San Bernardino, often serving at what were then called “soup kitchens,” providing not only meals but also spiritual encouragement. In the 1970s, Jose became active in the Christian Coffee House movement, which reached many young people with the message of God’s love. He was involved in local evangelism and faithfully attended Foursquare Church in Colton. He later answered the call to serve as the interim pastor of First Assembly of God in Colton, where he continued to serve as an assistant pastor for several years. In the 1980s, Jose followed a divine calling to plant a church. What began as small gatherings in his home grew into a vibrant congregation. The ministry expanded from a school auditorium to a property where a garage was converted into a sanctuary. Over time, that small garage church grew into a beautiful place of worship known as Word of Faith Fellowship, lovingly called “The Church on the Hill".

After the passing of his first wife, Jose found love again with Rosemary. Together they continued to serve the Lord and the congregation at Word of Faith Fellowship. As Jose entered his later years, he stepped back from full-time ministry but never from his faith. He and Rosemary became members of the Pentecostal Church of God in Bloomington, where he joyfully continued worshipping, often playing his beloved guitar. Jose Cortez leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and compassion. He was a spiritual father to many, a guiding light in his community, and a faithful husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life was a testimony to the grace and goodness of God, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

 The Cortez Family