Evangelina Gutierrez

Evangelina “Eva” (Villarreal) Gutiérrez, age 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Eva was born on January 19, 1948, in Weslaco, Texas, to Gilberto and Teodora Villarreal. Although born in Texas, she grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago, where she graduated from Rich Central High School and later attended Prairie State College. She carried throughout her life a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and lifelong learning.

It was in Chicago Heights, Illinois, where Eva met and married the love of her life, Felipe J. Gutiérrez. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, perseverance, and unconditional love. Chicago Heights became the place where they raised their family, built lifelong friendships, and created countless cherished memories. After many years in Illinois, Eva returned to her Texas roots, settling in Round Rock in 2015, where she remained close to her children and grandchildren.

Eva was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Felipe J. Gutiérrez; her parents, Gilberto and Teodora Villarreal; her sister, Norma V. Guerra; and her brother, Eusebio Villarreal.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Leticia “Letty” Schultz and her husband, Michael J. Schultz; her son, Gilberto “Gil” Gutiérrez and his wife, Lidija Tomic Gutiérrez; her cherished grandchildren, Charlie Bujak, Eddie Bujak, Isabella Gutiérrez, and Antonio Gutiérrez; her brothers, Alfredo Villarreal and Luis Villarreal; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Nothing brought Eva greater joy than her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother whose greatest happiness came from spending time with those she loved. She welcomed everyone with warmth, kindness, and a generous spirit that made people feel instantly at home. She loved family gatherings, sharing stories, preserving traditions, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations.

Eva was known for her delicious baking, her infectious smile, her love of a good slot machine, and her remarkable ability to find joy in life’s simple moments. Whether celebrating milestones, offering encouragement during difficult times, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends, she brought comfort and happiness to those around her. Her strength, compassion, faith, and sense of humor touched countless lives.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her family finds comfort in knowing that her love lives on in the lessons she taught, the traditions she passed down, and the memories she created. Her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

Visitation services will be held in both Texas and Illinois.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026 from 4pm to 7pm at Beck Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas.

A second visitation will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kerr Parzygnoy Funeral Home in Chicago Heights, Illinois. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Chicago Heights, Illinois, at 9 a.m. Interment and additional service details will be announced by the family.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, neighbors, caregivers, and loved ones who offered prayers, support, and compassion throughout Eva’s life and during this difficult time.

Eva’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be remembered always, missed dearly, and loved forever.