Amado R. Cortez, a man of profound warmth, love, and compassion, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 72.

Born in Manila, Philippines, Amado made the courageous journey to the United States in 1975. He eventually established his forever home in Gulfport, Florida, where he spent decades building a beautiful life rooted in faith, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to the people he loved.

Amado was a deeply religious family man who put his loved ones above all else. Alongside his cherished spouse, Andrea Cortez, he built a life on a foundation of Faith, Love, and Family. Following their civil union, they reaffirmed their commitment before God in a church marriage on November 14, 1992—a sacred bond that served as the guiding light for their home.

A remarkably hardworking and versatile man, Amado’s life was filled with diverse talents. In his early years, he shared his passion for music as a talented drummer and vocalist. As life evolved, he transitioned into roles serving his community, working as a toll collector with the Sunshine Skyway and Bayway. Never one to stop growing, Amado went back to school in the early 2000s, proudly attaining his Computer Engineering Degree from the ITT Technical Institute. He later dedicated many years as a Plant Operator with the Pinellas County School Board at Sawgrass Lake Elementary School, where his reliable nature and kind spirit touched many lives before his well-earned retirement in 2022.

Beyond his professional achievements, Amado found pure happiness in the simple, beautiful moments of life. He loved singing karaoke, tending to his garden, going fishing, and above all, spending time surrounded by his family. His gentle nature and joyful presence made every gathering brighter.

Amado’s legacy of love lives on through his beloved wife, Andrea; his proud children, Adam, Patrick, Bryan, and Amanda; and his fur-family, his loyal dogs Baluga and Macchi. He is also survived by his eleven siblings, who hold his memory dear: Lourdes, Federico, Efren, Rick, Edwin, Willie, Bert, John-John, Bernadette, Edith, Susan.

He will be remembered always for his peaceful spirit, his enduring strength, and the unconditional love he gave so freely.