Luz America Gutierrez

Luz América Gutiérrez passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on Saturday evening, June 25, 2016. She was 101 years old. Beloved wife of the late Manuel Jorgé Gutiérrez Sr. Loving mother of Manuel Gutiérrez Jr. (Agatha), Miguel Gutiérrez (Jane), Raul Gutiérrez, Margarita Ford (the late Jack), Ricardo Gutiérrez, Roberto Gutiérrez (Gwen), Daniel Gutiérrez, Alicia Skermetta (Dan), and Linda Trotter (James). Grandmother of 19, great-grandmother of 30, and great-great-grandmother of 6. Sister of the late Mike, Lilí, Carmen, Alicia, Daisy, Haydeé, Vidalia, and Frankie. Daughter of the late Marcelina Mata and Miguel Rodriguez. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. América was a native of Cartago, Costa Rica, and immigrated to New Orleans over 90 years ago. After raising her nine children, she started “América’s Kindergarten with the Montessori Approach” school in her home, and orchestrated the teaching of children for many years. She was a parishioner of St. Francis Xavier for over 75 years, and was a longtime member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Metairie Ridge Chapter 169. She was a dedicated volunteer at Metairie Senior Center, East Jefferson General Hospital, and the People Programs. América was also an avid and talented dancer. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass from LEITZ-EAGAN Metairie, 4747 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, on Thursday morning, June 30, 2016 at 11:00. Visitation will begin at 9:00, and an Eastern Star Service will be held at 10:00. Inurnment will take place in Metairie Cemetery at a later date. An online guestbook is available at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.