Mary Gutierrez

Mary Gutierrez (née Rivera), 89, a beloved mother, grandmother and sister, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Mary was born March 5, 1936 in Yuma, Arizona to Lucy and Cleto Rivera. She was the eldest of 12 children.

Mary moved to Riverside in 1951 where she met her husband Nicolas Gutierrez (Sr.), who passed away in 1987. They were married in 1952 and had four children, Yolanda, Lily, Nicolas (Jr.) and Nancy. She had nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and most recently, a new great-great grandson.

Mary was a distinguished member of the Casa Blanca community in Riverside. She was a beloved and respected preschool teacher (known as “Teacher Mary”) for more than 40 years and has been credited with steering many children in the community to success. Mary was an activist in her community, regularly attending community action meetings and was a proud advocate for women’s health. Mary also loved gardening, shopping and visiting the casino. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, reading and watching movies. Mary is survived by her children, her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A visitation for Mary will be held Monday, May 19, 2025 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA 92504. A rosary will take place Monday, May 19, 2025 from 6 to 6:30 p.m. at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92504. A committal service will take place Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 1 to 1:30 p.m. at Olivewood Memorial Park, 3300 Central Ave., Riverside, CA 92506. A funeral service will take place Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 11 a.m. to Noon at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church, 4268 Lime St, Riverside, CA, 92501.