Paris Lorenzo Gutierrez, a resident of Allen, Texas, passed away on July 2, 2024, at the age of 63. He was born on August 9, 1960, to Johnny and Shirley Gutierrez. Paris spent his childhood in Gainesville, Texas, as the youngest of five children. Growing up and learning the ropes of his family circus, would eventually grow into an extensive resume as a well named lighting gaffer and stagehand. Even as a child, he displayed fearlessness, often climbing to high places to hang lights and set stage pieces.
During his high school years, Paris engaged in activities that required both courage and determination. His work on movie and live production sets often involved handling tasks others found daunting, a testament to his fearless nature from a young age. Paris was no stranger to hard work, having started at a young age, which instilled in him a strong work ethic.
On August 8, 1980, Paris married the love of his life, Sherri Ann Smith, in Gainesville, Texas. Throughout his life, Paris generously shared the lessons he learned, offering guidance and wisdom to others. His love for lighting spread through many venues such as the Winspear Opera House, Music Hall at Fair Park, Meyerson Symphony Center and many more. Despite his small stature, he possessed a determined spirit and was known for his motto, "dynamite comes in small packages."
A natural leader, Paris inspired those around him and brought out the best in his colleagues. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Paris will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sherri Gutierrez of Allen, Texas; daughter, Lindsay Embrey and husband, Corbin Embrey of Plano, Texas; son, Zachary Gutierrez of Allen, Texas; grandchild, Maximilian Embrey of Plano, Texas; brother, Johnny Gutierrez of Garland, Texas; sister, Valentina Barber of Dallas; his best pet pal, Coco Chanel; numerous other loving family members and friends.
Paris was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny and Shirley Gutierrez and sisters, Alicia Tidmore and Lynn Askew.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at Margot & Bill Winspear Opera House, McDermott Hall, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas 75201 to celebrate the life of Paris Lorenzo Gutierrez. A private burial service for the family will be held at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.