Mary Jane Garland

Mary Jane Garland, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, wife, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, at 5:30 a.m. in Torrance, California. She was 87 years old.

Born on December 7, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio, Mary Jane was the second of four children to Evelyn Marie and George Victor Foutts. At the age of three, she moved with her family to Southern California, which remained her home for the rest of her life.

Mary Jane became a mother with the birth of her son, Craig, followed by her daughter, Keli. Being a mom was a role she cherished above all else and one she carried with love and devotion for over 60 years.

In the mid-1960s, Mary Jane and Ralph Garland began their life together, embarking on a partnership that would span more than three decades. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, music, and family. Ralph passed away in 1996, but the memories they created together remained forever in her heart.

Above all, Mary Jane treasured her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love and unwavering presence touched generations. She had a generous spirit and a remarkable gift for making the people around her feel cared for and loved. She delighted in family traditions and celebrations, from holidays and birthdays to gatherings, always filled with laughter. She never missed an opportunity to send a thoughtful card, give a little gift, attend a family event, or simply let someone know she was thinking of them.

Mary Jane lived life with warmth, joy, and a wonderful sense of humor. She had an infectious laugh and a quick wit that could light up a room. She loved music and dancing, especially with Ralph, and some of her happiest moments were spent surrounded by family and friends, with music playing in the background and laughter filling the room. She also never passed up the chance to try her luck at the casino, cocktail in hand and seated beside her sister and friends.

Her greatest joy, however, was in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She treasured every moment with them and took immense pride in watching her family grow. She celebrated their milestones, supported them through life's moments big and small, and made sure they always knew how deeply they were loved. That enduring love will remain one of the greatest gifts she leaves to her family.

Mary Jane is survived by her oldest sister, Jean Atkins; her son, Craig Battram; her daughter, Keli Meyer and her husband, Bill Meyer; her stepson, Matthew Garland and his wife, Rita Garland; her grandchildren, Jessica (Mike), Amber (Ryan), Sami (Matt), Ryan, Jeff, and Joe; her great-grandchildren, Kenna, Ellis, James, and Jackson; and her beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Mary Jane’s greatest legacy is the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her memory will live on in the music, laughter, and family moments she loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Mary Jane’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.