Paula K.

Gutierrez

Paula K. Gutierrez, age 72, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her family.

Paula was born on May 22, 1953 in Decatur, IN to the late Kenneth and Catherine "Kate" (Fisher) Birch. On November 22, 1975, she married John E. Gutierrez, who preceded her in death on May 19, 2025. Paula worked as a deli manager for Chief Supermarket in Paulding for 25 years, before she retired in 2018. She was a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish in Paulding and a member of the Paulding Eagles Aerie 2405 Ladies Auxiliary. She loved going on trips and getaways, and enjoyed going to casinos. More than anything, she loved her grandchildren.

Paula will be lovingly missed by her daughters: Christy (Kevin) Timbrook, Antwerp, OH; Julie (Ron) Wirts, Paulding, OH; stepmother, Betty Birch, Decatur, IN; brothers: Craig Birch, Pleasant Mills, IN; Jeff Birch, Maples, IN; sisters: Nancy (David) Luginbill, Monroe, IN; Marnie (Steve) Shaffer, Decatur, IN; her five beloved grandchildren: Skylr (Josh), Kendall, Kalli, RJ, and Rya.

Along with her parents and husband, Paula was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth E. Birch; sisters, Pamela Birch and Patsy Birch.

A celebration of Paula's life will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at the Paulding Eagles.