Mary Jane Humphrey Obituary

In Loving Memory

Mary Jane Humphrey passed away on September 29th, 2025, at the age of 84. Born in San Gabriel, California on December 17, 1940, Mary Jane was a pre-mature twin; her sister Mary Rose passed away a few days after birth. The Nouguier family moved to Canoga Park in 1951 where Mary Jane enjoyed horseback riding and daily swimming in their pool.  She attended Alemany High School in the San Fernando Valley and was involved in every religious activity that there was to offer.   She entered the novitiate for the Order of St. Joseph of Carondelet at the age of 17. Following her final vows and bachelor's degree from Mount St. Mary's, she began her teaching career in Catholic elementary schools across California.

In 1977, Mary Jane left the Order and relocated to Santa Barbara to be near her mother, Phyllis Nouguier, and her sister, Ann Cedar, and family. She worked at Casa Dorinda, providing care for residents. During this period, she met Joseph, whom she married in 1979. The couple later moved to Santa Maria, where Joseph was employed in the engineering department at Santa Barbara Research.

Mary Jane pursued further education, earning her LVN degree from Hancock College. She worked helping to care for the Marian Sisters in their residence until leaving to volunteer full time  with Catholic Charities. The Santa Maria Times had an article about Catholic Charities with the headline referring to Mary Jane as "A Ray of Sunshine: The volunteer spirit is alive and well in Mary Jane Humphrey" As Joseph's health declined, Mary Jane dedicated herself to his care.  He was the love of her life.  He passed away on November 18, 2020, and he remained with her in spirit until her passing. She continued working with the Marian Residence Sisters until her own health necessitated her retirement.

Mary Jane was known for her deep religious devotion and commitment to attending daily Mass at St. Louis de Montfort. Her warmth and cheerful spirit positively impacted all who knew her.

Her father, Vince Nouguier, passed away in 1962 and her mother, Phyllis, passed away in 1993.  She is survived by her sister, Ann Cedar (Terry) of Bend, OR; nieces, Tina Agnoli (Chris), of Santa Barbara; Carol Matter (Chuck) of Camas, WA; and Melanie Akau (Kalama) of Bend, OR. She is also survived by her great nieces and nephews, Janessa, Tevin, Andre, Kate & Michael as well as two great-grandnephews and one great grandniece; stepson, David Humphrey (Pat), step-grandson, Christopher (Natalie) and three step-great-granddaughters (Hannah, Sarah and Eliana).

Donations may be made to a charity of your choice or to the Franciscan Sisters of Penance and Christian Charity, 124 S. College Dr., Santa Maria, CA 93454.

Rosary will be 5:30 p.m. at St. Louis de Montfort Church on Tuesday, October 14th, 2025. The funeral Mass will be 10:00 am on the Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 followed by the burial and reception.

The family would like to thank Merrill Gardens for their wonderful care of Mary Jane and to thank all of Mary Jane's caregivers, friends and neighbors who were there watching out for her to the very end.

In closing, Mary Jane will be deeply missed and fondly remembered!!