Maria Julia Gutierrez, 74, passed away on September 25, 2023 after suffering a stroke in early June.  Her strength and battle for the past 3 ½ months is to be admired.

Maria was born on January 11, 1949, in Galveston, Texas to Pedro and Enedina Gutierrez.  She grew up in Galveston and graduated from Ball High School.  She was a merchant marine and her work travels took her to places far away for a young girl.  She retired from Security Finance after 20 years of service.

Maria always had a story to tell… she had a great memory and could talk for hours about her family and also about time spent playing softball, which cultivated into her long-lasting friendships.

Maria is preceded in death by her parents, Pedro and Enedina, her brothers, Jose A. Gutierrez and Juan M. Gutierrez.

Survivors include Maria's two sisters, Olga Davis and Mary Rosalia Gutierrez, both of Galveston, her sons, Manuel T. Gracia, Jose S. Gracia and Victor P. Gracia, and wife, Monica, nine grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. Maria also had numerous nieces and nephews she adored.

Maria's sons would like to express their sincere appreciation to her lifelong friend, Teresa Cruz for her unwavering love and support throughout this difficult time.

The family will receive friends 10 a.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home, 1201 23rd Street, Galveston, Texas 77550 with a memorial service following at 11a.m., Pastor Trey Dowdy officiating.