Posted on 10/30/2026

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Mary Evelyn Michener, 90, passed away on October 4, 2026, in Sacramento, California. Born on October 8, 1935 in Urbanette Arkansas, she was one of ten children. Her family came to California in 1942 and has been in Yolo County ever since. She grew up in Clarksburg and graduated from Clarksburg High School with the class of 1953. Mary shared 70 years of marriage with her husband, Donald L. Michener. In 1957, they bought their home in West Sacramento, where they built a wonderful life together, raised their family and created a lifetime of cherished memories that spanned generations. Their love reached far beyond their immediate family, embracing their children's friends, their grandchildren's friends, and countless others who became part of their lives along the way. She built her career with the Washington Unified School District, working in the food service department until her retirement in 1996. She was known for her loyalty, dedication, and hard work. Throughout her years there, she helped provide employment opportunities for many women, reflecting her generosity and her practical, heartfelt desire to help others. Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Donald L. Michener; her daughter, Kathryn Mary Gutierrez and son in law, David; and her grandchildren Amber L. Michener, Rebeka Michener, and Eric Gutierrez; Her brothers, Jerold Breckenridge and Jesse Jr. "Bud" Breckenridge & many nieces and nephews. Also dear to Mary's heart were Kelly Hopkins, Kathryn's lifelong best friend and the mother of Amber and Rebeka, whom Mary lovingly embraced as her "other daughter," and Ron Gaytan, the best friend of her late son, Ken, whom Mary lovingly considered her "other son." Mary had a special gift for making people feel like family, and these cherished relationships were a beautiful reflection of the love she radiated so constantly throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her sons, Donald O. Michener and Kenneth L. Michener; her parents, Jesse and Velma (Hopper) Breckenridge; her sisters, Virginia, Monzell, Lona, and Debbie; and her brothers, Bob, Jake, and Daniel. Mary had many interests that brought her joy throughout her life. She was an avid reader, enjoyed crossword puzzles, followed sports, and had a special passion for baseball. She loved the ocean and the beach, and finding happiness in the simple pleasures of life. Above all, Mary loved caring for her family and her home. Those closest to her knew the unwavering devotion she brought to that role and the deep, lasting love she held for her children and grandchildren. Mary was a rule follower and a truth teller, she lived with integrity, fortitude and resolve. She was strong, quiet, determined, and disciplined, with a steadfast sense of right and wrong. She was also cheerful, kind, giving, and exceptionally generous. A natural leader with a formidable presence, Mary approached life with a glass-half-full outlook and a quiet strength that spoke louder than words. Her smile could brighten a room, and she brought "Mary Beya energy" wherever she went. She was warm and nurturing, loyal and fierce, and she loved her family constantly and without judgment. Her love was dependable, her strength unwavering, and her devotion to her family responsibilities were never in question. Mary leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, strength, and perseverance. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her strong spirit, her unmistakable presence, and the countless ways she showed her love through a lifetime of caring for others. Though she will be deeply missed, the lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the love she gave will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. A celebration of life will be announced at a later time.