Veteran actor Eddie Gutierrez was emotional as he delivered his eulogy for his daughter-in-law, Alexa Uichico-Gutierrez, who passed away on July 27.
"24 hours for seven months. Si Elvis ay nandoon lang sa tabi ni Alexa. Kaya Elvis, alam ko ang pagmamahal mo sa kanya, at ganoon din si Alexa sa 'yo. Lagi siyang nakayakap sa 'yo sa bahay, kaya alam ko na mahal na mahal ka niya," Eddie said tearfully.
@iloveruffag My dad’s heartfelt tribute celebrating the life of Alexa Uichico Gutierrez, my beautiful sister-in-law. Part 2. ??????????? #foryou #sister ? Moon River (Instrumental) - JJ Heller
On the other hand, Elvis Gutierrez—Eddie's son and Alexa's husband—admitted in his eulogy that there were moments when he struggled with his faith during his wife's battle with leukemia. However, Alexa’s strength became a reminder for him to uphold his faith.
He also vowed to start calling his father-in-law, Joel Uichico, "Pops," as Alexa had. Previously, he had only referred to him as "Lolo Joel."
Alexa Gutierrez and Her In-Laws
Alexa shared an exceptionally close bond with her in-laws, Annabelle Rama and Eddie Gutierrez. Earlier this year, when Annabelle posted a heartfelt message on Instagram during Alexa’s treatment, Alexa expressed her deep gratitude, calling them the "best in-laws." She also thanked them for their unconditional love and for taking care of her children.
Alexa wrote in the comments, "I love you too! Praise God I have you and Bubba Eddie taking care of the kids while I’m undergoing treatment. Thank you for loving the kids like your own super unconditional love ka mag mahal and super maalaga. Aria and Ezra are so lucky to have you as grandparents...I thank God every day for you guys and your love that overflows."
Alexa, an entrepreneur and mother of two, battled leukemia for seven months. She is survived by her husband, Elvis, and their daughters: Aria, 9, and Ezra, 7.
Last week, Ruffa Gutierrez announced her sister-in-law’s passing and shared that she is still processing the loss, describing Alexa as "irreplaceable" in her heart.
Click here for advice on how to cope with grief.