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James Ford Obituary

James Ford James "Jamie" Ford died peacefully on August 15, 2015. He was 63 years old. Jamie was born in San Antonio, Texas, and lived there until age 10. He then moved to Methuen, Massachusetts, with his family where he lived, attended school and grew to adulthood. In 1980, a trip to visit his sister in San Luis Obispo led to his decision to move here permanently. After a brief stint as a commercial grower, Jamie devoted the remainder of his life to the care and support of people with AIDS. Jamie was one of the founding fathers, in the mid 80's, of the Aids Support Network (now the Access Services Network). He eventually became the social services/benefits coordinator for this organization. He then moved on to the AIDS program at the San Luis Obispo Public Health Department in the late 90's as a Communicable Disease Investigator and a Community Outreach Worker, eventually becoming the Outreach Program Coordinator and helped the counties underserved populations, including Grizzly Academy and various recovery homes. During his time at the San Luis health department, he worked alongside other AIDS program staff members to develop a San Luis County syringe exchange. From the initial startup date in 2007, Jamie helped distribute syringes eventually becoming the San Luis Bangers Syringe Exchange grant writer. Jamie is survived by his twin sister, Martha Sparta, and brothers, Doke Ford and Tim Ford. A private Celebration of Jamie's Life will be held on Sunday, August 23rd. Those interested in attending may call (805) 528-2858 and leave a message for more information. In lieu of flowers, please donate money to either of Jamie's life interests, The San Luis Bangers Syringe Exchange Program or please donate to the Access Services Network. Sign his guestbook at sanluisobispo.com/obituaries

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Luis Obispo County Tribune on Aug. 21, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for James Ford

19 Entries

Steve

August 15, 2025

10 years! I still have the strawberry plants and begonia that you gave me. Good memories of you come to mind every time I look at them.

Steve Isun

August 15, 2022

My gosh the seven years since Jamie's passing has flown by so fast, yet there is rarely a day that goes by where I don't think of him and miss him.

Michelle Shoresman

August 24, 2015

Jamie was a very special person and caring advocate for those with HIV. I loved seeing the work he continued to do for the community, even after I left the AIDS program myself. San Luis Obispo was a better place for him living here. Jamie, you will be missed.

Mona Najera

August 24, 2015

Jaime, Jaime, Jaime! Tho' you have transitioned, you will forever be here as your work on earth has left an impression on countless levels and countless people. Thank you for your selfless generosity, wit and teaching moments. May your family (and all of us) call on happy memories to lighten the not-so-bright days...knowing your Spirit lives on in the hearts of all whose lives you touched. It's been an honor :-)

Susana Castañeda

August 24, 2015

Mi amigo, I miss you already you always be in my heart.

Laurie Magorian

August 23, 2015

Some people mean more to us than they could ever know. You believed in me when I had little strength and talked me into my first public speaking appearance (for ASN, of course). I remember you when you were so happy and then through times of sadness. So many times you would just 'be there' and we would stop and take time together. You have been, and always will be remembered as, a man of courage, a model of humanity, and always to me, a light in so many hearts. Thank you for being! I take your memory and smile with me always.

Bert Sharpe

August 23, 2015

I worked with Jamie for many years at SLO Public Health and was honored to call him a friend. He will be forever remembered for the many qualities that allowed him to serve our community with dignity and respect. Rest now Jamie, your work on earth is done but I doubt you'll rest in heavan....God has plans for you....Bert

Sherrie Rheingans

August 23, 2015

Working (volunteering) with you and Phil to take ASN to its next level was an amazing and rewarding experience. May your energy continue soaring across the universe.

Norma Wightman

August 23, 2015

Memories of cross country skiing in Yosemite, cooking Chinese,enjoying friends. Rest in Peace Jamie

Delarosa Biancca

August 22, 2015

Jamie left many friends behind, but never unsatisfied with his love. His work in the needle exchange program helped extend the lives of those who would have died sooner. And that was just a small part of what made Jamie, Jamie. His legacy earned him his reward. Jamie will be sorely missed.

Sam Sparta

August 22, 2015

Rest in peace & love, Jamie.
Bernie & Sam

Susan Small

August 22, 2015

Sending my condolences to Jamie's sister Martha and niece Bianca. I hope you find comfort and peace at this time.

Kari Slater

August 21, 2015

I had the pleasure of working with Jamie. Extremely kind, gentle, & a wealth of knowledge. Jamie had his Angel wings long ago. Thank You Jamie for all you did & all that will continue from your hard work.

Steve

August 21, 2015

Jamie you were such a gentle, fair, non judgmental and kind person, the list goes on. You were a friend and great neighbor, you will be missed.

August 21, 2015

miss you, bud!

Craig LeHoullier

August 21, 2015

You will be missed by many - but be at peace knowing what wonderful contributions you made while you were here. It is a privilege to know you.

Sheila Roche

August 21, 2015

RIP, you gentle soul. I'll think of you kitchen dancing.

August 21, 2015

I was so sorry to have read about
Jamie in today's tribune.
He was such an angel to all who were fortunate enough to have crossed his path in life. I met Jamie in the late 80's as a volunteer with A.S.N.

My heart & prayers go out to Martha &
family and the numerous folks who also loved Jamie.

Most Sincerely,
Trudy

Barbara Bailey MD

August 21, 2015

I am saddened to learn of Jamie's death. He was one of those people who earned the right to be called and recognized by one name, either "Jamie" or "Jamieford". Jamie changed San Luis Obispo for the better and the impact of his work will be felt for a long time. He personally helped so many people, and so many more through his work in various positions with ASN and the County. We are richer for having known him and poorer with his loss.

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