Hermelinda E. Gutierrez

Hermelinda E. Gutierrez, affectionately and playfully known as “Linda,” “Mely,” “Linda La Norteña” and “G-ma” peacefully completed her 93-year journey on earth surrounded by her children on April 30, 2022 in Houston Texas.

Linda was born October 14, 1928 in Papagayos, NL Mexico and was one of 13 children (8 sons and 5 daughters) born to Francisco and Concepcion Escamilla. She lived with her parents and siblings until she and some of her siblings moved to Monterrey, NL, Mexico to work in a bottling distribution plant. Here she met her husband, Jose Gutierrez with whom she then moved to the USA in 1955 to pursue better financial opportunities.

Linda was a mother to 5 children (4 daughters and 1 son) and worked fearlessly to provide them a fulfilling life while instilling honorable morals, distinguished values and exceptional work ethic to carry to the future generations of the family. She was able to continue influencing her many grandchildren and great grandchildren during her fruitful life. Not only did she impact her family, she touched the lives of so many around her with her fierce energy and giving spirit. She always made sure those around her were taken care of and did so out of the goodness of her heart, never asking for anything in return. She truly was the most loving and caring person and those traits will forever go unmatched.

She was an accomplished singer, songwriter and businesswoman. She was the first Hispanic artist, a true Pioneer, to produce and star in her own television show which featured artist from Mexico of all genres including Norteño, Regional Mexican, Tejano and Pop. She was always willing to attend a great concert and even sing a beautiful song at any given moment. Her love and talent for music carried over to her son, JC and daughter, Elsa, who also became accomplished entertainers. She always influenced her family to participate in the creativity, including her grandchildren whether it was learning an instrument or just enjoying music for the truly uplifting and therapeutic experience. She will always be remembered as a true legend in the Hispanic music industry.

Linda enjoyed traveling, creating countless memories with her family, appreciating a delicious meal (especially dessert), singing, listening to music and of course, the occasional trip to the casino.

She is preceded in death by her parents Francisco and Concepcion Escamilla, 11 siblings, her oldest daughter San Juana “Janie” Diaz and two grandchildren J.A. “Tony” Gutierrez and J.A. “Alex” Resendez.

She is survived by her children Elsa Garcia, Blanca Estela Resendez, Linda Almanza-Vasquez, J.C Almanza and their spouses Victor, Jesus, Jessie and Mary Ann respectively, as well as all her other grandchildren and great grandchildren.

There are no words to express the impact of losing such an important piece to the family puzzle. Linda’s bravery, glowing spirit, and love will always be remembered and can never be replaced. We will strive to carry on the accomplished, fruitful and beautiful legacy that she leaves behind for many generations to come.

A visitation for Hermelinda will be held Friday, May 13, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. A rosary service will be recited at 7:00 PM. A funeral service will occur Saturday, May 14, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. Burial will follow at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery.