Norma Alicia Gutierrez de Alvarado, age 59, of Orange Cove, California, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, she was the beloved daughter of Maria De Jesus Galindo De Gutierrez and Lazaro Gutierrez Chacon.
Norma was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She was the heart of her family — always generous with her love, her laughter, and her unwavering support. She built a beautiful life in Orange Cove with her husband, Santana Alvarado, and together they raised three sons: Ricardo, Francisco, and Oscar Alvarado. Her greatest joy was her family, and she especially cherished time with her grandsons, Santana and Sebastian Alvarado.
Norma found joy in life’s simple, beautiful things. She loved the color purple, and her home and wardrobe often reflected its vibrant warmth. She had a deep appreciation for flowers and butterflies — symbols of grace, transformation, and the natural beauty she saw in the world and in others.
She is survived by her loving husband Santana; her sons Ricardo, Francisco, and Oscar; her parents Maria De Jesus and Lazaro; her siblings Luis, Lazaro Jr., Sergio, Daniel, Martha, Lili, Patricia, and Victoria, along with their spouses; and her grandsons Santana and Sebastian. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews who will deeply miss her gentle spirit and kind heart.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Dopkins Funeral Chapel, 189 South J Street, Dinuba, CA 93618. A rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM at the same location.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 356 N Villa Ave, Dinuba, CA 93618. Interment will follow at Smith Mountain Cemetery, 42088 Road 100, Dinuba, CA 93618.
Serving as pallbearers are her sons Ricardo, Francisco, and Oscar Alvarado; and her brothers Luis, Lazaro Jr., Sergio, and Daniel Gutierrez.
Norma’s legacy of love, resilience, and faith will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her — just like the flowers and butterflies she so dearly loved.
