Martin Ronald Gutierrez, affectionately known as Marty, passed away on October 22, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on August 19, 1951, Marty will be remembered as a funny, fun-loving, caring, and respectful man whose wonderful smile and welcoming energy left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He never met a stranger, made friends with ease, and had a way with words that drew people in and made them feel at home.

Marty’s life was marked by devotion to both learning and service. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in San Antonio, Texas, in 1969, and later received a master’s degree in Counseling from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. For many years, he worked in civil service, helping soldiers and military families, a calling that reflected his generous spirit and deep care for others.

He also embraced life’s pleasures with enthusiasm. Marty loved traveling, cruising, and exploring new places. He found joy in music and dancing, and he expressed that love through playing the drums and guitar. Above all, he treasured spending time with friends and family, creating memories filled with laughter, warmth, and companionship.

On November 28, 1982, he married Deborah Lara, beginning a partnership rooted in love and enduring friendship. To Deborah, every day with Marty was a gift. He was not only her husband, but also her best friend, protector, confidant… her everything. Their marriage stood as a beautiful testament to loyalty, affection, and shared life.

Marty is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Gutierrez. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters, Viola Soto  (Ricardo), Valentina Cravens (Kyle), and Veronica Warnock (Jim); by his brother, Joseph Gutierrez (Angie); by his brothers-in-law Jose Lara, and Donald Lara (Stephanie); by his sister-in-law, Lisa Lara; and by his aunts Gertrude Alvarado, Mercedes Sueppel, and Aurora Castoreno; his uncle, Valdemar Gutierrez; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He leaves behind a wide circle of family and friends who will continue to cherish his humor, kindness, and the easy friendship he offered so freely.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Francis Ponce Gutierrez; his father, Jimmy Santiago Gutierrez; his brother, Jason Gutierrez; his father-in-law, Jose Lara; his mother-in-law, Mary Lara; his brother-in-law, Lawrence Lara; his uncles, Jose Gutierrez, Gregorio Gutierrez, and Feliciano Ponce; and his aunts, Elva Maldonado and Terri Aguilar.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on October 29, 2026, at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, Georgia 31907. Visitation will follow the services at the funeral home. Services will also be held in San Antonio to be announced at a later date 

Marty’s life was one of connection, laughter, service, and love. He gave freely of himself, welcomed others with openhearted warmth, and brought light wherever he went. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.