Leora Joan Matranga

Leora Joan Matranga, age 91, of Sacramento, California, passed away peacefully in her home on May 20, 2026.

Born on October 11, 1934, in Sacramento, California, Leora lived a life defined by love, kindness, dedication, and service to others. She was the beloved daughter of William and Blanche Kaufer and spent her childhood in Sacramento. Known affectionately as “Billee” before her marriage, she later became Leora Matranga, sharing a lifetime of love and adventure with her husband, Johnnie.

Leora devoted more than 30 years to education as an elementary school teacher and math specialist in the Rio Linda School District. She was passionate about helping children learn and succeed, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, students, and families alike. Her excellence in teaching was recognized with the District Teacher of the Year Award as well as the County Math Teacher Award.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Leora found her greatest joy in her family. She loved researching genealogy and preserving family history, ensuring that future generations would know and appreciate their roots. She enjoyed gardening, traveling, and exploring the country with Johnnie in their RV, often combining their travels with visits to family and water ski tournaments. A strong advocate for health and nutrition, she embraced a lifestyle centered on wellness and vitality.

Leora was also deeply involved in the American Water Ski Association, where she served as a top official and contributed her time and talents on numerous committees over the years. Her leadership, dedication, and commitment to the sport left a lasting impact on the water ski community.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Matranga Benzel (David Benzel); her son, Rocky Matranga (Heather Matranga); her grandchildren, Tarah Benzel Mikacich (Cobe Mikacich), Tyler Benzel (Katie Benzel), Mackenzie, Victoria, Alexander, Hadley, Ariana, Annelysia, Madison, and Camden; and her great-granddaughter, Gracie Benzel. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Blanche Kaufer; her sister, Althea Mathis; and her beloved husband, Johnnie Reese Matranga.

Above all, Leora will be remembered for her unwavering love and loyalty to family and friends, her kindness and generosity, her leadership, and her remarkable dedication to preserving family history. Her wisdom, encouragement, and caring spirit touched countless lives, and her memory will be treasured by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 24 at 11:00 a.m. at East Lawn East Sacramento.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grant Union High School Alumni Association or the American Water Ski Association.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to their family and friends for their support, love, and compassion during this difficult time.

Though she will be deeply missed, Leora’s legacy of love, service, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.