Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory, 600 E Stowell Road, Santa Maria, CA (2026)

12/17/2025

ELIZABETH A. ANTHONY

Longtime Santa Maria resident, Elizabeth “Betty” Anthony, died peacefully on December 8, 2025, at the age of 100.

Betty was born in Chicago, Illinois, where her father was a vice president of the Chicago and North Western Railway. She was a proud graduate of Marywood Academy, Evanston, IL, attended Northwestern University where she was a member of Alpha Chi Omega, and graduated from Marquette University. After marriage she made her way to Southern California where she and her husband, Jim, had five children and eventually settled in Santa Maria. Betty raised her family and then became the Parish Secretary at St. Mary’s Church for sixteen years until retirement. She loved her family, her faith, folk dancing, volunteering, traveling, and the Chicago Cubs. At the Santa Barbara County Fair, one could find her baked goods, jams, and pickles sporting blue ribbons.

Betty is survived by her children, who were dear to her heart: Mary Pat Studdert (Andy), Phil (Pam), daughter-in-law Lori, Jim (Anamaria), Mike (Judy); thirteen grandchildren; one great grandchild; and her sister, Barbara Niman. She was predeceased by her son, Vince. Her family is grateful to Betty’s caregivers who lovingly allowed her to live her final year in dignity.

A Funeral Mass will be held on January 30, 2026, time to be announced, at St. Louis de Montfort Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph High School, 4120 S. Bradley Road, Santa Maria, CA 93455.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

12/17/2025

THOMAS MICHAEL POLOWY
1934 - 2025

Thomas Michael Polowy, age 91, passed away November 26, 2025, at Marian Medical Center, Santa Maria, California.

Thomas was born September 20, 1934 in Chicago, Illinois and was the second of three children; siblings MaryAnn and Charles. At the age of 22 Thomas joined the Marines and rose in the ranks to become a Sargeant stationed in Camp Pendleton, CA. Thomas enjoyed California so much he returned with his former wife, Bernice (Kalarski) and raised four children.

Thomas is survived by his son Thomas H. Polowy, daughter Eileen F. Polowy-Alford, son-in-law Brad A. Alford, daughter Pamela A. Polowy-Baird, son-in-law Kevin P. Baird, son Christopher T. Polowy, grandchildren Amanda, Andrew, Tom, Aubrey, Chandler, Joel, sister MaryAnn Kamrowski, brother Charles Hoth, sister-in-law Mary Hoth, nieces Emily and Madeline, nephew Jimmy Kamrowski and his wife Gabriella Kamrowski.

Thomas enjoyed baseball, especially his beloved Chicago Cubs. In his free time he enjoyed farming, woodworking, and time spent by the ocean. He had a great passion for history and science, music and movies. He loved to spend time with friends and family and was an avid gardener.

Thomas retired from Santa Barbara County as a carpenter. After retiring he began working at Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant during the outages and soon became a full-time employee of PG&E.

To honor my Father's wishes, there will be no funeral service. I invite you to please privately celebrate Thomas Michael Polowy’s memory in your own ways. Although Thomas’ physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love, generosity, and compassion in all that we do. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

12/17/2025

ANNE SYLVIA KELSAY
1942 – 2025

Anne Sylvia Kelsay, 83, of Santa Maria, passed away Friday, December 12, 2025. Anne was born in Bakersfield, CA on March 9, 1942.

What is a best friend…
Someone who is a deeply trusted, supportive and authentic companion.
Someone with whom you can be yourself.
Someone with whom you can share life’s ups and downs, share each other’s secrets, and challenges without judgement.
Someone who feels like an irreplaceable part of your life
That is who Anne was to me and many of her dear friends.
Her laughter and humor will be missed by all who knew and loved her

Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at the Orthodox Church of the Annunciation. Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Santa Maria Cemetery, South Lawn.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

12/12/2025

GARY L. STARR
1952 - 2025

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Lynn Starr, beloved husband and father, who died peacefully on December 5, 2025, at the age of 73 in Santa Maria, California.

Gary was born on October 20, 1952 in Sherman, Texas, the first-born son of Robert C. Starr and Francis Marie (White) Starr, and later moved to Santa Maria with his family. He graduated from Santa Maria High School, where he competed on the water polo team, and later attended Allan Hancock College.

Gary served with the U.S. Army as an Armor Reconnaissance Specialist and Material Supplyman stationed in Germany, where he received the National Defense Service Medal.

Gary worked on a farm in Idaho, and laid irrigation for vineyards on the Central Coast. He then settled into a 24-year career in the automotive industry in auto parts sales and management, moving to the San Fernando Valley and Burlingame, and eventually returning to San Luis Obispo, Atascadero, and Santa Maria. But he most enjoyed his career as a Lieutenant Supervisor of Guards with Chenega at Vandenberg AFB, and later as a Transportation Officer with G45, contracted with Homeland Security, a combined career spanning over two decades.

Gary loved coaching his son's Boys & Girls Club basketball teams, golfing, and rodeo. He was a proud 32-year member of Elks Lodge , and volunteered at the Elks Rodeo for 26 years on the release chutes for tie-down and other roping events. It was always his favorite time of the year.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Terry, and his son Matthew, sister-in-law Patty Starr, various nieces and nephews, their spouses, and great-nephews and -niece. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved brother, Verne Starr.

Gary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his outgoing personality and love for his family. His spirit will forever shine in our hearts.

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to Central Coast Hospice and especially the caregivers at Lories' RCFE for their kindness, compassionate care, and support.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life is planned at St. Peter’s Church, 402 S. Lincoln Street, Santa Maria, CA 93458 on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peter’s Church, P.O. Box 1868, Santa Maria, CA 93456.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

12/09/2025

ELENE M. TALLMAN
1938 - 2025

Elene M. Tallman, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the age of 87 in Santa Maria, California.

Elene was born on December 22, 1938, in Iraklion, Crete, Greece, where she was raised. She later met an American airman, her first husband and the father of her children, Donald Ray Polly (RIP). Through his service in the United States Air Force, they lived in Tripoli, Libya, before coming to the United States and ultimately settling in Lompoc, California, where they raised their children. Elene later moved to Santa Maria, California.

For many years, Elene worked as a manicurist at Odile’s Beauty Salon in Lompoc. Cooking was her greatest passion and her love language, and she delighted in preparing meals for family and friends. She also loved to travel, though her favorite destination was always her beloved homeland of Greece. Elene was a loyal and devoted parishioner of St. Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Church, and the family would like to express heartfelt thanks to Father Bob for his support and kindness during Elene’s last few years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings; her daughter, Donna Marie Aguirre; and her son, George Edward Polly. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Tallman; her son, Nick (Jennifer) Polly; her daughter, Era Polly; her son-in-law, Raul Aguirre; her daughter-in-law, Catherine Polly; her grandchildren, Corinna Polly Cortez, Erin (Jeremy) Castillo, George (Nicole) Edward Polly Jr., Raul “Sonny” Aguirre Jr., and Samantha Eve Polly; her great-grandchildren, Maya Fi**ne, Luke Castillo, Henry Castillo, Ellie Veronica Polly, and George Edward Polly III; and many extended family members and dear friends, including Lawnae Hunter of Bend, Oregon, and Odile Schwartz of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Elene will be remembered for her kindness, strength, unwavering faith, and the love she shared so freely with everyone who knew her.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 877 Francine Lane, Santa Maria, CA 93455. A graveside service at Santa Maria Cemetery will follow.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

12/04/2025

Christopher Michael Curzon, 59, Beloved Brother, Uncle and Friend

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Christopher Michael Curzon, who died at the age of 59 after a yearlong battle with cancer. He left this world on November 25, 2025.

Born on December 27, 1965 in Arroyo Grande, CA, he grew into a man known for his generous spirit, steady hands, and unwavering willingness to help anyone in need. As a mechanic, he had a gift not only for fixing engines, but for making people feel heard and respected. If something was broken—whether it was a car or someone’s day—he was the first to roll up his sleeves.

Along with his sister, he grew up in the store window at Don’s Variety, his parents’ store. The window was their playpen and the back of the store their yard. From an early age he had an aptitude for taking things apart and putting them back together. Early signs of his lifelong passion for fixing things.

He loved a good barbecue, and some of the best memories with him were found around a grill, where smoke curled into summer air and he’d insist everyone take seconds. His laughter, easy humor, and warmth made gatherings feel like home.

Even when not at work, you would often find him under the hood of the 18A at the Santa Maria Speedway. He loved being a part of Aaron Bruce’s crew and helping him race for a win.

He always had a boat to take out on the lake or a classic car to cruise with and sometimes he had both. He enjoyed revving up the engines for anyone who would listen or taking you out for a ride you wouldn’t soon forget.

He is survived by his sister, Jennifer Nolan, brother-in-law, Mike Nolan, and niece Jessica Warren, who will forever miss his boisterous laugh and generous heart.

A service to honor his life will be held on Sunday, December 7 at 2:30pm at Oak Park Christian Church in Grover Beach California. Family and friends are invited to attend and share memories, stories, and love.

Though his time with us was far too short, his kindness, humor, and love will live on in every person whose life he touched.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

12/03/2025

GERALD ELLIS SCHMIDT JR. (JERRY)
June 27, 1960 – November 14, 2025

Gerald “Jerry” Ellis Schmidt Jr., 65, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14th, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Jerry was born on June 27th, 1960, in Torrance, CA, and later moved to San Miguel, where he attended Paso Robles High School. A gifted athlete, he earned a football scholarship to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His team won the National Championship for their division in 1980. He was invited to play for the Dallas Cowboys in 1983. His professional career was brief, but he often reflected on how that path led him exactly where he was meant to be.

Following his football career, Jerry worked briefly at Porsche- Audi until a conversation with a customer changed the course of his life. Inspired by the man’s career in commercial real estate, Jerry got his real estate license and dove headfirst into the industry. In 1989, he was recruited by Jerry Beaver to open a Santa Maria office for Beaver Free Corporation, later known as Pacifica Commercial Realty.

From the 1990s to today, Jerry became one of the Central Coast’s most respected real estate professionals. His notable achievements include representing Hughes Aircraft Company in the sale of 75 acres on Betteravia Road; now home to corporate offices, residential, retail, and the Santa Maria Police Department. He also represented Texaco in the sale of more than 100 acres of land that became a residential community of over 1,000 homes near Blosser Road. He played a key role in bringing Golden State Porcelain to the Columbia Business Center and successfully sold the adjacent former Costco warehouse- twice.

In 2006, Jerry and his partners purchased Pacifica Commercial Realty’s Santa Maria operations and later acquired the firm’s original Santa Barbara brokerage. As Pacifica’s Broker of Record and President, he led Pacifica’s continued growth from its Santa Maria headquarters to its permanent home on South Bradley Road, the former Hometown Buffet.

In addition to brokerage, Jerry brought property management to Pacifica Commercial Realty. Pacifica currently manages over a million square feet of property and continues to grow with the help of an incredible team, including his daughter Sara.

Jerry left a lasting impact on the area he loved through business, but also by giving back to his community. Jerry joined the Police Academy in 2003, where he graduated as Valedictorian. He served as a part time reserve officer and armorer with the Santa Maria Police Department for over 10 years. He sat on the original Police Council Board of Directors in 2007 and was president of the board 2013 and 2015. The Santa Maria Police Council Golf Tournament and Comedy Show was one of his passions that continues to raise money for the Police Department annually.

Jerry’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Stephanie, his children, Sara, Danielle and Joshua; son- in-laws Joseph and Mike; his treasured grandchildren Michael, Luca and Ellis; Mother Nancy, and his siblings, Carol, Linda, James and Don. Jerry was an avid hunter and fiercely dedicated father who never missed a sports game, school event or church activity. His sharp wit and signature sarcasm brought laughter to those around him, and his love for attending concerts with his wife created memories that will be cherished forever.

Jerry’s deep love for Jesus kept him grounded throughout his life and especially during his final battle. He fought the good fight with courage, faith and unwavering strength.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

A celebration of life will be held for Jerry at Calvary Chapel Santa Maria (2620 Santa Maria Way) on January 17th at 2:00 in the sanctuary.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

11/25/2025

MIKE KEASLER
1950 – 2025

Mike Keasler of Nipomo, passed away November 6, 2025 with his partner at his side.

Mike was born on November 27, 1950 to Paul William Keasler and Gisela Balbach in Centre, Alabama. Mike was a photographer for his high school newspaper and continued his photography interest throughout his life. He attended CalPoly, San Luis Obispo. His career in electronics and communications saw him working for private companies in Santa Maria and at Vandenberg. He started his own company, California Applied Technologies in the mid 80’s, providing communication services to local municipalities and business in the area. His joined the Lompoc radio shop at the turn of the century and remained with Lompoc until his retirement in 2017. Mike was an avid electronics enthusiast and continued to work on and create new equipment until the time of his death. Mike served as a volunteer firefighter in the early 1990’s and supported local film makers with props and technical assistance whenever needed.

Mike is survived by his partner of 40 years, Joanne Bradley.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

11/24/2025

AUDREY M. FORGETTE
1935 - 2025

Audrey died peacefully on the afternoon of November 16, 2025 at the home of her daughter, Renee. Audrey was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on January 28, 1935, the youngest child of William and Emilia Bush. She attended Immaculate Conception School and St. Peter’s High School. After graduation, she held several jobs before meeting the love of her life, Leo Forgette, at a roller-skating rink while he was serving in the Coast Guard. They married on November 6, 1954 and moved to California where they made their first home in North Hollywood. As their family grew, they moved to Van Nuys, Victorville, San Dimas, and Chatsworth. After retirement, they relocated to Santa Maria. They had been married for 63 years when Leo passed away in 2018.

Audrey was a devoted wife and mother, roles in which she found profound meaning and purpose. She created a warm, welcoming home for her family. She loved babies and watching them achieve their developmental milestones. She was an adventurous cook known for her beef bourguignon and lasagna, and even more so for animal birthday cakes, huge batches of Christmas cookies, and banana splits. Her children and grandchildren still make her pecan rolls for special events. Education was important to her and she spent hours coaching her children with their homework and reading books they picked out at the library. She was proud that all of her children attended college. Church was also important and she faithfully and consistently practiced her faith.

Audrey had a lively sense of humor. She lifted up the best in everyone she knew and encouraged patience and understanding. She was quick to offer help when needed. She was stoic in the face of adversity and illness, exuding a calm strength.

Audrey and Leo raised seven children. She is survived by Adrienne Forgette, of New Carlisle, OH; Kristin Fasana and her husband John of Duarte, CA; Raymond Forgette and his wife Denise of Prescott, AZ; Geoffrey Forgette of Los Angeles, CA, Renee Panec and her husband Dave of Placerville, CA; Marie Passaglia and her husband Dean of Albuquerque, NM, and Janelle Cardona and her husband Kenneth of Berea, KY. She had 16 grandchildren--Andrew Peterson, Mark Peterson, Erin Robinson, Matthew Fasana, Lisa Fasana, Jacquelyn Kramer, Brianna Forgette, Joseph Forgette, Rebecca Bray, Megan Long, Nicholas Passaglia, Nathan Panec, who preceded her in death, Jacob Panec, Gabriel Panec, Thomas Cardona, and Kathryn Cardona. She is also survived by 15 great grandchildren and her beloved brother, Charles Bush, along with many nieces and nephews to whom she was the “cool aunt.” She is missed by all.

Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025; followed by the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel at Magner-Maloney Funeral Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at St. Louis de Montfort Church. Interment will follow in the original section of the Santa Maria Cemetery.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

11/18/2025

SISTER MARY JAMES ZEMBAL, O.S.F.
1931 - 2025

Sister Mary James Zembal was born the third child of Carol and Ann Zembal, both of whom grew up in Poland, in Aberdeen, Washington on September 17, 1931 and was given the name Genevieve. She attended high school at St. Mary’s Academy in Toledo, Washington where she met the Franciscan Sisters of Penance and Christian Charity. After graduation she entered the novitiate of the Sisters in Sierra Madre, California and was given the name “Mary James.” She earned a BA degree from Mt. St. Mary’s in Los Angeles and an MS from St. Mary’s College in Winona, MN. She professed perpetual vows in 1956.

As early as 1953 she began a life as a teacher, at first at the grammar school level in Sacramento and the Los Angeles area, and then, starting in 1962 at the high school level in San Francisco, Montana, and Washington State. Moving to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1972, where she lived for 48 continuous years, she taught at Archbishop Mitty High School in San Jose. Training as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher in 1986, she began a 27-year ministry in the San Mateo area, teaching English to many refugees and immigrants.

Before moving to Santa Maria in October of 2020 with her dear friend, Sister Michele Mangan, she volunteered at St. Anthony’s Foundation in Palo Alto, often making dozens of cookies for food baskets delivered to the homeless.

Throughout her life she loved to garden, especially delighting in tulips; she often received tulip bulbs from Holland, some sent from the Sisters of St. Francis who live in the Netherlands.

She was often visited by her former ESL students, many of them Chinese, who provided many dishes from their own cuisine, which she greatly enjoyed. Sister James also taught English to many of our sisters from other countries. She traveled numerous times to Poland to teach English to the Sisters there. Sister James was faithful to attending daily Mass (often praying for rain) and to her daily prayer life.

A Vigil Service will be held on Monday, November 24 at 6 pm at the main chapel at Marian Convent, 124 S. College Dr. in Santa Maria. Mass of Resurrection will be on Tuesday, November 25 at 10:30 in the same location. Donations may be made in her name to the Wilderness Fund, a special fund the Sisters have for the poor.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

11/17/2025

ROBERT “BOB” SCHAFER
1932 - 2025

Robert “Bob” Schafer of Santa Maria, CA, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, four days short of his 93rd birthday.

Bob was born on November 13, 1932, in Baltimore, MD, to J Vinton Schafer and Wilhelmina Melchior. Bob graduated from General Vocational School and began working full-time in his father’s construction company at the age of 16. At 19, he married his high school sweetheart, beginning a marriage that lasted until Ann’s death more than 61 years later. Their engagement was announced at Prom! After the birth of their three sons and while working full-time in construction, Bob enrolled in adult school and earned his high school diploma. When a back injury terminated his career at the age of 42, he enrolled in college. He earned a Master's degree in Vocational Education from California State University, Los Angeles, and went on to teach carpentry and construction technology at Santa Monica City College, Venice High School, and Garfield High School. He received many grateful tributes from his students, as he helped build their self-esteem and guided a number of them into successful careers in woodworking and construction. Upon retirement, Bob moved to Santa Maria to enjoy his golden years with Ann, where he designed and created a stunning garden, and bought and customized a motorhome he named “The Wanderin’ Waldorf”.

Bob was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a beloved teacher. He instilled a love of the outdoors in his three sons, taking them camping and fishing, SCUBA diving together, and participating in their Cub and Boy Scout activities. When Ann suffered a series of devastating illnesses in the final 15 years of her life, he selflessly dedicated himself to her care and comfort. The Wanderin’ Waldorf was sold, and Bob became cook, housekeeper, and nurse. His devotion to Ann was a model of what love looks like in the face of adversity.

Bob is survived by son Robert Jr and his wife Yuju Chen, daughter-in-law Margie Schafer, grandchildren Heather, Jeremy, Tyler, and Genevieve and her husband Peter, and great-grandchildren Adam, Nathan, Charlotte, Juliette, Jacob, Joshua, and Layla. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Russell, Royal, Burt, and Bill; his sisters, Minnie and Alice; his wife Ann; and his sons, Ken and Larry.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025, in the Chapel at Magner-Maloney Funeral Home, 600 East Stowell Road, Santa Maria, CA 93454.

Graveside Services will be 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, in the original section of the Santa Maria Cemetery.

The family would like to send their heartfelt appreciation to the Jireh Senior Home staff for their kind and compassionate care they provided to Robert and family members.

The family is exploring the possibility of a live broadcast or a Zoom meeting. If interested, please email rfschafer337@gmail.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.

11/11/2025

Honoring our Veterans. Share a picture of your Veteran!
We’ll start…
Here’s the dad of our Managing Partner, Ben Pirkl.
Captain Willard H. Van D**e, USN Retired.

Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory

12/17/2025

12/17/2025

12/17/2025

12/12/2025

12/09/2025

12/04/2025

12/03/2025

11/25/2025

11/24/2025

11/18/2025

11/17/2025

11/11/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share

Category