Maria S. Gutierrez

Maria Susana Gutierrez was born on the 15th of September 1962 in Harlan, Kentucky. The oldest of four children and only girl born to Jose Antonio and Maria, she became a second mom to her siblings always looking after them – especially when they were getting into trouble. It’s probably where she learned to be two steps ahead of everyone else. Solving challenges before they become bigger problems. As a young girl she enjoyed gymnastics and playing the piano but had a particular affinity for music. Every Sunday you would find her by the radio listening to Casey Kasem’s Top 40 following her favorite bands and dancing to songs of the day.

Maria attended the Flint Hill School where she had a love of foreign languages. As part of the German Club she and her classmates travelled to Europe where she would practice her language skills and learn of the different cultures. At Flint Hill she also found a passion for cheerleading. She would take this passion far beyond high school and into college at Mary Washington and eventually becoming a Cheer coach at George Mason High School from 1985 - 1997. During that time, she served as a mentor and an example to many of personal and professional excellence. She also helped lay the groundwork for what is now the Virginia High School League Cheer Championship.

Maria finished her career as a dedicated Lockheed Martin employee where she spent nearly 20 years. She left an indelible mark on those around her, welcoming everyone with her signature warm smile and genuine interest in their well-being, making each person feel valued and seen. Maria’s exceptional ability to form connections and offer support transcended her immediate team, resonating throughout the entire building and often extending to the broader Virginia area. Her absence will be deeply felt by her coworkers who will miss her daily presence. Maria’s legacy of kindness, compassion, and connection will be profoundly missed and her impact on the lives of those around her will continue to be felt.

Of all her passions, her family and friends were here greatest loves. She was always there not just in moments of celebration but in times of struggle and uncertainty. Whether as a friend, family member, or colleague, Maria showed what it means to stand by others, to offer support without judgement, and to always remain true. She was generous and thoughtful and simply enjoyed being around the ones she loved. Loving and compassionate – she loved to be silly and had the most beautiful smile.

We are reminded that Maria’s loyalty lives on – in the bonds she forged, the hearts she touched, and the legacy of faithfulness she leaves behind. She is the best friend, daughter, sister, and aunt anyone could have. Maria . . . we will always remember you. You will be in our hearts forever.

Maria is survived by her loving mother Maria and three brothers: Tony, daughter Katerina husband Drew, daughter Faith; Her brother Marco, wife Kelly, children Candice and Marco, and her brother Giancarlo, his wife Michelle and children, Isabella, her husband Adam, Helen and Vivianna. Funeral service will be held at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Clifton, VA on Friday, June 20th 2025 at Noon.