Mary Van Blake, a retired correctional sergeant, passed away Jan. 10, 2026. She worked for the department for nearly 25 years.
She began her career with the department as a correctional officer at California Correctional Institution (CCI) in February 1986. She later promoted to sergeant in April 1991.
Her entire career was spent at CCI in Tehachapi. She retired in October 2010.
“CCI extends our very deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to Mary’s family, co-workers, and friends. She will be missed by many,” according to the institution.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Jan. 22, at 407 W. E St. in Tehachapi.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Related content
San Quentin mourns passing of Officer Michelle Jones‑Harris
Michelle Jones-Harris, a correctional officer at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away July 21, 2026. Jones-Harris began her career at…
Watch: Agent Byrd memorialized at training center, CMF
Two CDCR memorial ceremonies honored fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, marking one year since his passing. At California Medical Facility…
Ismael Martinez, retired correctional lieutenant
Ismael Martinez, a retired correctional lieutenant from Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, passed away July 14, 2026. He worked…
CMF mourns loss of Melissa Boos, management services tech
Melissa Boos, a management service technician at California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vacaville, passed away July 21, 2026. She worked…
CSP‑Solano mourns loss of Kevin Thomas, health records tech
Kevin Thomas, a health records technician at California State Prison-Solano, passed away June 22, 2026. Thomas began his career as…
San Quentin mourns passing of Jonathan Castillo, office tech
Jonathan Castillo, an office technician at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away Feb. 1, 2026. Castillo began his career at…