Linda Gutcher Obituary

LINDA JOANNE GUTCHER

January 6, 1961 – May 28, 2025

Linda Joanne Williams Gutcher, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 64. A lifelong resident of Bakersfield, California, Linda lived a life defined by compassion, conviction, and joy – leaving behind a legacy of service, deep faith, and unconditional love.

Born on January 6, 1961, to Robert L. and Betsy Williams, Linda grew up on the east side of Bakersfield as the second youngest of five siblings, with whom she shared a special bond her entire life. As a child, Linda developed a love for horses that never left her, receiving her first horse at the age of 10. Weekend rides and mornings at the barn with her daughter, Sarah, and her best friend, Karen, were among her most cherished rituals.

Linda's career as a physical therapist spanned nearly 40 years and touched countless lives. She was known for her gentle hands, dreaded ice massages, sharp clinical instincts, and fierce dedication to her patients, bringing skill, empathy, and encouragement to every session. She worked at Memorial Hospital, Pair and Marotta Physical Therapy, and Engage Physical Therapy, becoming a trusted and beloved figure in the community.

Linda was a passionate advocate for the arts and her church. She served as a board member and president of the Bakersfield Regional Ballet (Bakersfield City Ballet) and dedicated nearly 20 years of studio and backstage help to young dancers – many of whom she treated in her clinics and cheered for from the audience. Linda was devoted to her Catholic Faith and rarely missed a weekend service. She was an active member of her parish, St. Francis Church, where she gave her time and heart to groups like WOW and Reflections. She was also an avid gardener, turning barren spaces into beautiful, flourishing oases.

Linda was the heart of her family. She was a devoted wife to Thomas Gutcher, her husband of 42 years, and incredible mother to their daughters, Laura and Sarah. She embraced the title of "Nana" to grandkids Miles and Hallie with joy, enthusiasm, and boundless affection.

She is survived by her husband, Tom; her daughters, Laura Sampson (Cory) and Sarah Gutcher; grandchildren, Miles and Hallie Sampson; and her siblings, Robert S. Williams (Susan), Laurel McMahon (Terrance), Steven Williams (Dennis), and Misty Cantrell (Matt). She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert L. and Betsy Williams.

Linda's legacy is one of love, faith, and unwavering presence. She was someone who showed up – for her family, her patients, her friends, her pets, her church, and her community – again and again, with a full heart and open arms.

A rosary will be held at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:30 AM and reception to follow on Friday, July 18, 2025, at St. Francis Church in Bakersfield. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and celebrate a life well-lived. We invite you to wear green, her favorite color, as a way to honor her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Linda's beloved causes: St. Francis Church; SOS Dog Rescue; FleetOfAngels.org; San Jose Sharks Foundation.

www.bakersfield.com/obits