It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Stovesand. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, friend, and legendary figure in the Bishop Diego Community.
Jim was born in St. Louis Missouri, a lifelong Cardinal fan, and the only child of Howard and Marie Stovesand. He graduated from Christian Brothers High School in St. Louis, then enrolled in the University of Missouri, where he graduated with a BS in civil engineering.
He then joined the U.S. Army, where he was responsible for water treatment projects and medical supply distribution. Upon discharge, he attended St. Louis University where he graduated with an MBA.
In 1967, he began his career in the securities and investments industry, where he worked for 39 years at the firms Merrill Lynch, Prudential Securities, and Raymond James.
Jim moved to Santa Barbara in 1971 with family in tow to begin his career in the financial industry until retirement in 2006.
During his years in Santa Barbara, he became a respected and active member of the community through his volunteer efforts as trustee on the Board of Directors at Visiting Nurses and Hospice Care of Santa Barbara; and an extremely rewarding commitment to Bishop Diego High School.
At Bishop, he headed the annual fundraising golf tournament for 50-plus years, and announced several sports for 47 years which earned him the title “Voice of the Cardinals;” and induction into the Bishop Hall of fame in 2023 — what he considered one of his most successful achievements.
Jim was a very involved father, grandfather and great-grandfather. One of his greatest joys was coaching the kids sports and attending their games to see them play from anywhere from Little League to CIF playoffs.
Jim leaves behind five children Bruce (Karen), Barb (Neil), Kirk (Donna), David (Emily), Alan (Kristen); 14 grandchildren Kristen, Lindsey, Kayla, Marlin, Spencer, Kyle, Brandon, Renae, Hunter, Lauren, Rebekah, Hannah, Joshua, Kaleb; and nine great-grandchildren
A memorial service will be held for Jim at 10 a.m. March 29 at St. Raphael’s Catholic Church, 5444 Hollister Ave., with reception following.
In lieu of flowers, Dad would love donations to Bishop Diego High School Athletics Department or Santa Barbara Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care.