Bette C Mendizábal

Bette Clarice Mendizábal

June 30, 1938 – May 21, 2026

Born in San Diego, California, to Edgar and Mary Fletcher, Bette was the eldest of two daughters. The family later settled in Concord, where Bette graduated from Mount Diablo High School before attending San Jose State University. Bette passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, surrounded by her family and loved ones; she will be forever held in our hearts.

While attending San Jose State, Bette met Albert, her loving husband of 46 years. Both were lifelong educators; but their five children were their greatest pride and joy. Raising their family in a strong Catholic community, they instilled deep Christian values, character, and commitment to service. Whether supporting their children through Scouts, sports and higher education or working with the underserved, Bette and Al emphasized the importance of family togetherness and compassion for others.

After raising their family, Bette earned a Master of Arts in Special Education from San Jose State University. She returned to the Alum Rock Unified School District, where she dedicated the remainder of her career to her students as an esteemed special education teacher. Miss Bette, as she was often greeted, was deeply treasured by her students, faculty, and friends alike.

A devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and matriarch, Bette filled her days with family gatherings and school events. She delighted in spoiling loved ones with heartfelt gift baskets, delicious treats, and festive holiday décor. In her retirement, she enjoyed driving her red Mustang GT to meet friends for a lunch and a laugh. She was a huge movie buff and enjoyed fascinating Hollywood insights.

She will be remembered for her sharp sense of humor, her artfully styled nails, her unique collection of Betty Boop memorabilia and novelty spoons, and her love for cherry cordials and the cinema.

Bette was preceded in death by her adoring husband Albert, and her cherished son, Michael. She is survived by her children, Michelle (Mark), Marisa (Hector), Matthew (Rose), and Marcos (Natalya); eight grandchildren, Nicole, Christopher, Jacqueline, Mari, Albert, Matthew, Xena Rose, and Xavier; great-grandchildren, Oliver, Ofelia, Harrison, and Leo; nieces and nephews Rey, Jackie, Oona, Greg and Anisa; and Tío Bob.

Please join our family in celebrating Bette’s life. As an amateur botanist, Bette loved blooming and receiving flowers. In lieu of flowers, you may donate in her memory to the American Heart Association or a local school of your choice.

Service Details:

• Vigil Service: Monday, June 1, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Chapel of Flowers, 900 South Second Street, San Jose, CA.

• Funeral Mass: Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 4601 Hyland Avenue, San Jose, CA

• Reception at The Drying Shed. San Jose, CA