San Juanita Gutierrez

San Juanita “Janie” Gutierrez 

Janie passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024, at the age of 69. She was surrounded by her loving family.

On Oct 7, 1955, she was born in Kingsville, Texas to Augustine and Leonor Trevino. She was the eldest of eight children. She left home at 16, got married and was off to start an amazing life. Her first husband was an army soldier who opened her eyes to a huge world outside of Texas. Although she did not finish high school, with sheer determination and hard work she received her GED via correspondence courses while living in Germany, working and raising a family. She had a love of knowledge and continued learning throughout her life obtaining several certifications and awards. She started working for Deca and took advantage of every opportunity that came up to advance. Having started as a cashier, she worked her way up to commissary store manager. Her work ethic and dedication were a testament to her character, earning her respect and admiration throughout her career.

Janie lived for her family. As a devoted single mother for many years, she worked tirelessly to provide for her children and ensure that they had every opportunity to succeed. She taught them the value of hard work, respect, dedication, responsibility, and perseverance, and most of all family. She showed them that no matter how challenging life became, with faith and God in their hearts; there was nothing that couldn’t be overcome. 

Janie’s love of life extended to her passion to see the world, travel and try new things. She found music all around her and loved to dance. There was nothing she would not try or do to see the smiles on her children’s and grandchildren’s faces. From spirited game nights, passionate sport cheering, quiet movie dates, family Loteria, simple crafts or long road trips and cruises; she did it all. 

Janie was a devoted mother, cherished sister, and beloved friend. Her incredible smile and contagious laugh could light up any room, bringing warmth and joy to everyone around her. 

Janie’s legacy of love, kindness, and vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Although our hearts ache from her loss, we find comfort in remembering the remarkable life she led and the light she spread to all who knew her. We will carry her memory and treasure the love and laughter she shared. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving children, Elsa Farias(Rudy), Ayelet Gomez(Albert), Melody Menchaca (Pete), Jesus Gutierrez; her grandchildren David Garza, Devyn Garza, Gosiah Deluna, Azariah Deluna (Ivana), Yasmin Menchaca and Rudy Robert Farias III, and three great grandchildren. Along with her siblings Angie Trevino, Margie Hernandez, Mattie Zamora, David Trevino, Mando Trevino and Rosie Garza, several nephews, and nieces, and Joe De La Rosa who held a special place in her heart.

The family will receive condolences on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 5pm to 9pm; with a holy rosary to be recited at 7pm. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11am on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at St. Martin Catholic Church. A rite of committal and internment will follow at Santa Gertrudis Cemetery.