Monica Lynn Hayes

It is with tremendous sadness we share that Monica Lynn (Martinez) Hayes, 63, of Sacramento, California entered eternal peace on October 27, 2025. She was above all a fierce and loving Mom. She also was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a dear friend, an artist, and a dog Mom to Mocha. Her presence will live on in her daughters, family, and friends, and her place on earth will be deeply missed.

Monica was born on December 30, 1961 in Saginaw, Michigan to Dolores (nee Garza) and Emilio Martinez, who survive her. She dedicated her life to her four girls Cat (27), Marianne (25), Lillian (23), and Julia (23), and was immensely proud of the four young women they’ve become. If you had any conversation with Monica, it would begin and end with her extolling their many accomplishments. Monica was a very talented artist, who shared that art with so many. Numerous homes are decorated each holiday with one of Monica’s many festive creations.

Monica will be missed by so many family members including her brother Jim Martinez of Rocklin, CA, his wife Suzy Martinez, and their sons James and Ben; her sister Lori Berger (nee Martinez) of Sacramento, CA, her husband Greg Berger and their son Rowan; many aunts and uncles across the country, and dozens of cousins; and Greg Hayes of Sacramento, CA, the father of their four girls.

Monica and her family moved to Sacramento in 1967. Monica attended Harry Dewey Elementary School, Will Rogers Junior High School, and graduated from Del Campo High School in 1980. She also attended American River College. Monica went to work with her mom at Aerojet General in the early 80’s and was there for many years. Monica then went to work at the YWCA for the EncorePlus program, which focused on education, exercise, and support for women affected by breast and cervical cancer, where she ultimately became its Executive Director. Monica continued her advocacy for breast cancer prevention and treatment as Manager of LaVanne Boutique, which served women recovering from breast cancer surgery.

One of her greatest joys came with the birth of her four daughters. She was able to stay home and help raise them. Their schedules were almost as demanding and crazy as they are. As her girls got older, Monica went to work in California Legislature in 2014 proudly serving Assemblymember Tom Ammiano, Assemblymember Bill Quirk, and most recently Assemblymember Liz Ortega, who became a close friend.

Everyone who knows Monica knows that at any party, you could be certain that she would be the first one on the dance floor. This interest started at a young age. One of Monica’s passions was her work for many years as an aerobics instructor. She also competed in aerobics and body-building competitions. Over the years, it was common for everyone to see Monica with her Starbucks grande, decaf, non-fat, no-whip mocha, and a butter croissant. Monica loved attending concerts with her long-time partner Kevin Totushek. The two shared many happy times together either alone or surrounded by Monica’s innumerable friends.

Monica’s brilliant and vibrant light will be missed by all. Her light and love will continue to be carried forward by her girls and the many, many people she touched.

For remembrances, the girls are asking you please consider a donation to Chalk it Up Sacramento in Monica’s memory.