Jimmy Ray Trevena Trevena

1936 - 2025

Jimmy Ray Trevena

September 4, 1936 - September 27, 2025

Modesto, California - Born 09.04.1936 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to Conley and Edith Trevena. Jim joined the Navy at 18 and ended up in Washington state where he met and married Helen Larsen. After an honorable discharge from the Navy he moved his small family to Oregon where he tried working at the lumber mill. Deciding that was not for him, he joined the Air Force and landed in Sacramento, Ca. Once honorably discharged from the Air Force, he was sent to Modesto, CA in early 1962 to see about working for the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office. Jim became a deputy sheriff under Sheriff Dan Kelsey and worked through many different divisions as he progressed through the ranks. He was promoted a number of times including becoming a Sergeant, a Lieutenant and a Chief Deputy. After Dan Kelsey retired he worked under Sheriff Fred Wood. Jim made a number of lifelong friends while working for the Sheriff's Office and led with integrity. (Leaders lead). In 1970-71 Jim and Helen's marriage ended and in 1972 he had met and married Catherine Brewer and remained married for 53 years, until his passing. In 1986 Jim became the Sheriff of Stanislaus County and retired in 1991, trading in law enforcement for golf and travel. He and Cathy had a great journey and enjoyed their wide network of friends. Jim loved life, golf, travel, family, friends and lived a good life. Jim had two brothers; Bill and Bob Trevena. He raised three children; Linda, James (Kathryn) and Joseph (Jane) and he has 5 grandchildren Derel (Teresa), Darcie (Aaron), Matthew (Fiona), Sarah and Joshua. These grandchildren have given him 9 great grandchildren to date. Jim lived a full life, between the dash, and passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 89. Jim, or Sheriff as some called him, will be greatly missed by many. In lieu of flowers please feel free to donate to the charity of your choice. Services for Jim will be held on Monday October 6, 2025 at Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson, CA. Services begin in the Heritage Chapel at 12:00 noon with graveside services at 1:00 pm.