James Elmer Pascoe, Jr.

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of James Elmer Pascoe, Jr. shares his peaceful passing on October 11, 2025. Jim leaves behind a legacy of service, laughter, and love that touched countless lives.

Born on January 30, 1940, at Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital in Los Angeles, California, Jim was the son of James Elmer Pascoe Sr. and Elnora Vernon Pascoe (Record). He grew up in Southern California and graduated from Glendale High School in 1958, later earning his A.A. from Glendale Junior College in 1961 and his B.A. from San Fernando Valley State College in 1963. That same year, he completed Officer Candidate School and was commissioned into the United States Army, where he served as a First Lieutenant until 1965. He remained in the Army Reserves with the rank of Captain until concluding his service in 1975.

In October of 1963, Jim married Carol Ann Derham in Glendale, California. Their marriage spanned nearly 62 years and was defined by family — the heart of everything Jim held dear. Together, they welcomed four daughters: Janet, Kathy, Karyn, and Linda, who kept him humble, laughing, and always on his toes. Jim adored his girls, and they adored him right back. His pride in them was limitless.

Jim began his lifelong career in education in 1965 at Isbell School in Santa Paula, where he taught physical education and coached multiple sports. His leadership skills quickly shone, leading to promotions to Vice Principal and then Principal. In 1970, he earned his Master of Science in Education from the University of Southern California.

In 1975, Jim and Carol moved to Northern California, where he became the Principal of Brook Haven School in Sebastopol — a role he cherished until his retirement in 2000. Even after retiring, he continued shaping future educators as a student teacher evaluator for Sonoma State University — a position he spoke about with joy and hoped to return to even in his final days.

Jim was the very definition of community. Widely known as “Grandpa Jim,” he was a familiar face on the sidelines of local basketball and volleyball courts, soccer fields, and school events. He coached for the Boys & Girls Club, Strawberry School, and local youth leagues — never missing a game, performance, or milestone in his grandchildren’s lives. To them, he was their biggest fan. His pride in his family was boundless — and he made sure everyone knew it.

Jim is survived by his wife, Carol, and their daughters Janet Upton (Scott), Kathy O’Neil (Kevin), Karyn Pascoe (Kim Granlund), and Linda Kepley (Kirk). He was a proud grandfather to Riley O’Neil, Laney O’Neil, Isa Granlund, Eero Granlund, Dylan Kepley, and Ada Kepley, and in 2005, joyfully welcomed Scotty Upton, Matt Upton (McKenzie), and Cristina Upton into the family. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren through the Uptons.

He was preceded in death by his younger sister, Patricia (Patsy) Elnora Lehman, and his beloved granddaughter Ada Emery Kepley.

Jim spent his life cultivating and growing good in the world — literally and metaphorically. A fourth-generation Californian, his love for the land was in his blood. His knowledge of native plants and microclimates was remarkable, and his gardens became sanctuaries filled with birdsong. Whether it was tomatoes, elephant heart plums, Meyer lemons, artichokes, or some new hybrid fruit, nothing ever tasted as sweet as the things he grew.

His ability to connect and see the good in others left a lasting mark. Former students and friends have shared stories of how he encouraged them to recognize their strengths, follow their passions, and believe in their own worth. His kindness inspired careers, shaped lives, and built community.

Jim loved to pack light and head into the trees, often with a small daughter or four in tow, finding joy in getting a little lost. He approached life with curiosity, humor, and gratitude, always making the best of whatever cards he was dealt. As a father, he was unwavering — his daughters always knew he had their backs and loved them more than anything.

Known for his optimistic spirit, youthful sense of humor, and gentle kindness, Jim made everyone feel like a friend. He was “Uncle Jim” to many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, a steady and joyful presence in countless lives.

Jim loved Mexican food — especially fish tacos, pico de gallo, and guacamole — and had a soft spot for rocky road and Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food ice cream. He always knew where to find the best (and cheapest) burrito in town, and if you shared a meal with him, he’d happily finish his plate — and yours too.

A regular at his Sebastopol gym and on weekly bike rides with his cycling group, Jim maintained lifelong friendships with former colleagues, students, and families from Brook Haven and beyond.

Jim’s life was a masterclass in optimism, kindness, and connection. Whether you were a lifelong friend or someone he’d just met in line at the grocery store, Jim had a way of making you feel like you truly mattered. He remembered names, asked thoughtful questions, and always had a story to share. Jim never met a stranger. He believed in people, in second chances, and in showing up — again and again — for those he loved. His laughter, warmth, and generosity will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in every student he inspired, every friend he encouraged, and every family memory he helped create.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Brook Haven School in Sebastopol on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to either of these organizations, a reflection of Jim’s lifelong commitment to education, community, and nature.

Sebastopol Education Foundation (earmarked for Outdoor Ed.)

Pepperwood Preserve