Sonora resident, Mary Jane Crocker, died at her daughter's home in Sonora, California on September 23, 2011. She was 89.

Born in Fresno to Clarence and Gracie Howard on March 22, 1922, Mary Jane graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles and went on to become a homemaker.  Mary Jane was a member of the Sierra Bible Church where she was a bible study leader, and a book club member.  She was also a Girl Scout leader.  She enjoyed gardening, religious studies, cross country skiing, hiking, and fishing.

Mary Jane is survived by her daughters, Joanne Cumings of Kingswood, Texas, and Pat Dambacher and Judi Jones, both of Sonora; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Albert Crocker (SPHS '38); and brother, Lloyd Howard.

The Union Democrat, September 28, 2011