It is with great sadness that I share Jesse “Tito” Jimenez, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024.

Jesse is survived by his wife Bonnie Jimenez; children Danny (Pauline), Britney (Alec), Brandy (Jordan), Tyler and Ty; grandchildren Madison, Marcus, Jaxx, Sebastian, Jayce and Taylor; sisters Yolanda (Genaro), Mary V (Dimas), Mary M (Jesse); and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He is predeceased by his parents Manuel and Bernalda Jimenez, sister Libby Ann, and brothers Peter and Manuel Jimenez.

Jesse was born on Aug. 6, 1954 in Santa Barbara. He was raised in Goleta, attending Goleta Union Elementary, Goleta Valley Jr. High, and graduated from Dos Pueblos High School, class of 1972.

He enlisted in the Marines and went on to work for the Santa Barbara Unemployment Office as a maintenance officer, as well as for Santa Barbara Wharf, followed by his final and favorite career that many knew him for, Pacific Beverage Company, which he retired from in 2018.

In his youth, Jesse developed a love for sports and played a variety for Goleta Boys Club, where he was seen as a natural born athlete. He continued his love for the game playing basketball and baseball in high school.

Later in life, he would share his passion and knowledge of sports with his children by coaching their teams.

Those who knew Jesse knew his love for sports continued on as he was one of the biggest 49ers fans, proudly representing his team. Don’t forget about his Dodgers either, cheering them on and sharing his love for baseball.

Growing up, Jesse was always surrounded by family. Jesse spent weekends traveling to LA to visit cousins, relaxing at barbecues, attending Sunday Mass at St. Raphael’s Church, eating at La Tolteca, hanging at local parks, and joining family summer trips to San Diego Zoo and Disneyland.

In his young adult days, Jesse spent much time with friends at the Boys Club, playing over the line, hanging out at Goleta projects, getting into mischief in IV, and sneaking out of his house by hopping the fence to hang out at the Goleta drive-in.

He was a well known and respected man from Goleta, many who saw him as their protector, looking out for all.

Jesse would meet Lydia and together welcome their child Danny boy, which brought him much joy.

He would later find the love of his life whom he cherished, his wife, Bonnie. They would welcome their three children Britney, Brandy and Tyler. Jesse beamed with pride and loved talking about his family, his greatest accomplishment.

Jesse valued family and friendships, often having long and meaningful conversations about times past, while sharing his wisdom to inspire others.

He was a jokester, always making others laugh. He loved messing with his nieces and nephews (also his great nieces and nephews), as well as his children’s friends, always teasing or trying to one-up them.

Although our hearts were not ready to let you go, we find some peace knowing you are free of pain and reunited with your parents and siblings. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.

On behalf of his wife, children, sisters and family, we would like to extend our greatest gratitude and thanks for all first responders, ICU nurses, doctors, especially Dr. Kumar and Dr. Patel, and all who played a vital role in taking such good care of Jesse.

Loved ones are invited to join for a viewing, 9:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23 at St. Raphael’s Church, and a Mass at 10 a.m.. A celebration of life will follow at Tuckers Grove Park, area 5.