James Edward Powell Jr., known to friends and family as Jimmy, Jim, or simply Powell, passed away on January 17, 2026, at the age of 71 in San Luis Obispo, CA. Born on November 15, 1954 in Glendale Ca, he grew up in Torrance Ca, was married and had two daughters in Santa Maria Ca, and later moved his young family to Rocklin Ca. Years later he retired to San Luis Obispo Ca.
Jim's early education took place at South Torrance High School followed by higher education at El Camino College and California State University at Pomona.
Jim dedicated his professional life to architectural design, notably serving as an interior space designer for the State of California in Sacramento. His work, characterized by his attention to detail and a profound understanding of spatial aesthetics, has left a lasting impact on numerous public spaces throughout the state.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was a passionate artist, skilled in woodworking, painting, and drawing, with a particular focus on modern art. Jim also had an enduring love for volleyball; he played at the college level and later coached the game at Rocklin High School. His resilience and stubborn nature were complemented by a good sense of humor and an impressive mastery of trivia. Jim's Christian faith was a private part of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with those around him, and making him some lasting friends.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his daughters Megan Fishwick and Jamie Ryan (Michael); his grandchildren, Ivy, Violet, Maple, Hadley, and Oliver; his mother Shirley Powell; and sisters Jody Jones (Gordon) and Amy Johnson (Rick); nephews, Tyler Jones-Powell (Adam) and Lucas Johnson; nieces, Haley Johnson (Matthew) and Hannah Herbold (Blake); grand nephews, Connor and Nicholas; grand niece Avila Herbold. Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Powell Sr.
Jim's life was marked by his resilience, creativity, and the deep connections he forged with those around him. His legacy of humor and dedication to his crafts will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by all who knew him.
Jim's early education took place at South Torrance High School followed by higher education at El Camino College and California State University at Pomona.
Jim dedicated his professional life to architectural design, notably serving as an interior space designer for the State of California in Sacramento. His work, characterized by his attention to detail and a profound understanding of spatial aesthetics, has left a lasting impact on numerous public spaces throughout the state.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was a passionate artist, skilled in woodworking, painting, and drawing, with a particular focus on modern art. Jim also had an enduring love for volleyball; he played at the college level and later coached the game at Rocklin High School. His resilience and stubborn nature were complemented by a good sense of humor and an impressive mastery of trivia. Jim's Christian faith was a private part of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with those around him, and making him some lasting friends.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his daughters Megan Fishwick and Jamie Ryan (Michael); his grandchildren, Ivy, Violet, Maple, Hadley, and Oliver; his mother Shirley Powell; and sisters Jody Jones (Gordon) and Amy Johnson (Rick); nephews, Tyler Jones-Powell (Adam) and Lucas Johnson; nieces, Haley Johnson (Matthew) and Hannah Herbold (Blake); grand nephews, Connor and Nicholas; grand niece Avila Herbold. Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Powell Sr.
Jim's life was marked by his resilience, creativity, and the deep connections he forged with those around him. His legacy of humor and dedication to his crafts will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by all who knew him.
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