Denise Lavern Gutierrez, 57, gained her angel wings on Friday, January 16, 2026. Denise was born on May 17, 1968, in the small community of Embudo, just north of Española, New Mexico, to parents Sylvia and Felix Salazar.

Denise was many things in life. She was a daughter, sister, wife, friend, and mother, but above all, she was a woman who lived life on her own terms. She was beautiful, strong, and unapologetically herself and didn't care what anyone else thought of her. Though known for her tough and stubborn exterior, those who truly knew Denise understood that beneath it all was a deeply kind, caring, and loving soul.

Denise was a fighter in every sense of the word. Though small in stature, lovingly referred to as "fun size," she possessed a fearless spirit and powerful presence, never hesitating to speak her mind or stand her ground. Denise was an unmistakable and unforgettable force to be reckoned with. Strong in heart, independent, resilient, and a hard worker who gave her all in everything she did. She faced life's many challenges head on with determination and grit, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.

Denise was preceded in death and welcomed into God's Kingdom by her parents, Sylvia and Felix Salazar; her brother, Darrin Salazar; her father-in-law, Jose Levine Gutierrez; along with many other beloved family members and friends who went before her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Mike Gutierrez, her mother-in-law, Mamie Gutierrez; her daughters, Desiree and Cassie Gutierrez with fiancé Angel; her brothers, Dwight, Kenny, and Anthony Salazar; and her cherished fur babies, Kilo, Maylia, Baby, and Pecosa. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family invites all who knew and loved Denise to attend her Celebration of Life on February 11, 2026, at San Felipe Catholic Church, located on the north side of Old Town Plaza in Albuquerque, New Mexico at 2005 N Plaza St NW Albuquerque. The Rosary will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. We will be asking everyone as they enter the church to turn phones off or put them on silent to avoid any interruptions during Denise's service.

The cremated remains will be carried in procession by her husband, Mike, and daughters, Desiree and Cassie. There will be no interment or reception following the services at this time.

In closing, the Gutierrez family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the love, prayers, and continued support shown during this difficult time. None of it has gone unnoticed, and all of it has been deeply appreciated. Thank you for not only loving our family, but for loving Denise.

Though Denise is no longer in pain, she will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her strength, spirit, and love will live on in the hearts of those she touched, forever remembered and never forgotten.