Christopher David Cortez, age 39, of Blue Ridge, Georgia passed away on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 in Gainesville, Georgia. Chris was born on October 26, 1983 in Columbus, Georgia to the late Alfred Thomas Cortez and Dorothy Louise Connell Cortez. Chris was proud of his Native American heritage and was known as "Black Hawk". He was a talented Native American Traditional Dancer who enjoyed going to Powwow's and sharing his culture with others. He was also an avid chef who had been awarded "Top Chef" by the Albany Herald in Albany, GA for his specialty pizzas. Chris loved to cook for his family and friends. Chris was of the Baptist Faith. Chris's children were the sunshines of his life and he loved spending time with his family. Preceding him in death are his parents; brother, Daniel Cortez; grandparents, Fred Manzer, Pate Connell, and Elise Connell; and uncles, Johnny Connell and Eddie Garbright.

Christopher is survived by his loving fiancée, Mandy Crane; daughter, Lillian "Lily" Cortez, step-children, Madison Deal, Skyler Crane, Kelsey Greene, William Spencer, and Alaina Spencer; sister, Melissa Cortez (Randall Hatmaker); grandmother, Lucy Manzer; aunts; Elizabeth (Mike) Howe and Inez Cortez; uncles, David Connell and Richard Connell; and many cousins and a host of friends.

A service to celebrate Christopher's life will be held at a later date.

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge is in charge of these arrangements.