James "Jimmy" Don Exposito

In Loving Memory of Jimmy Exposito

December 27, 1948 – May 20, 2025

It is with profound sadness that the family of Jimmy Exposito announces his passing from this life into the arms of Jesus. He was surrounded by the love and prayers of his devoted family.

Memorial service will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors. 

Born on December 27, 1948, in Amarillo, Texas, Jimmy was the fourth-born child of Fred and Rhealene Exposito. He spent his childhood in the Amarillo area, growing up in the San Jacinto neighborhood where he shared countless adventures with his friends—playing quarterback for the Kid’s Inc team, exploring the streets of San Jacinto neighborhood, and riding his motorcycle down the halls of Sam Houston Jr. High on the last day of school.

The summer after his sophomore year at Tascosa High School, Jimmy suffered a life-altering accident when he dove into Buffalo Lake and broke his neck, severing his spinal cord. Paralyzed from the neck down for three months, he was initially unable to walk. But through sheer determination, the unwavering love of his father, and the support of family and friends, Jimmy overcame the odds. He not only walked again but went on to live a full and impactful life.

Jimmy joined the family business in hair design and built a successful career in the field. In 1977, alongside his father Fred, he founded the Exposito School of Hair Design, where he mentored and inspired countless young stylists, helping to launch careers and transform lives through his gentle guidance and expertise.

On June 16, 1973, Jimmy married the love of his life, Jan Gentry. Together, they shared nearly 52 years of unwavering love and partnership, faithfully honoring their vows through both joy and hardship.

Jimmy will be remembered most for the deep love he had for his family—watching football, teaching his sons how to fish, spending time at his beloved cabin, and celebrating holidays together. His quiet strength and kind, soft-spoken spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He was deeply grateful for the lifelong friends, loyal clients, and devoted caregivers who walked beside him through every season of life, offering encouragement, companionship, and care with unwavering love.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Rhealene Exposito; his sister Monte Exposito; brother-in-law David Johnston; and nephews Michael McBride and Brett Exposito.

He is survived by his loving wife Jan Exposito; his sons Brandon Exposito (Brandi), Tanner Exposito (Karolina), and Dustin Exposito (fiancée Katie); and five cherished grandchildren: Oliver, Piper, Maks, Parker, and Jemi Exposito. His brother Freddie Exposito (Pris), sister Vickie Childers, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jimmy's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the strength he showed in overcoming life’s challenges. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Amarillo Fellowship Church, 8425 Bell St, Amarillo, TX 79110, or Mission of Hope, c/o Carolyn Nickerson, 900 N. Hughes St., Amarillo, TX 79107.

The family will receive friends and loved ones at 3519 Edgewood following the services.