Joe Pompilio

Joseph Paul Pompilio, 83, passed away after a long, valiant battle with Parkinson’s disease. Joe was born in Long Beach, California, and attended local, Catholic and military schools before going on to earn his degree from San Jose State University and continuing his graduate studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Joe spent 33 years as a school psychologist for Santa Barbara County schools, a career that let him spend a lifetime helping young people, many of them with special needs, work that suited his patience, his insight, and his genuine care for others. He also helped staff stay grounded and realistic about their jobs. Joe was loved and respected by both his students and the staff alike.

He was known for his direct and honest assessment of situations. Joe was married previously and had one son, Jeffrey. In 1976, he married the love of his life, Penny, and in doing so gained two more young children, Trent and Lisa, whom he raised as his own and loved without reservation — a real father to them in every way that mattered. He was also a proud grandfather to three grandchildren, Blake, Danika, and Jonty, whom he loved dearly. Joe also leaves behind a special daughter-in-law, Tracy Johnson.

Those who knew Joe knew him for his sharp wit, his wicked sense of humor, and a belly laugh that filled a room. People looked forward to simply being around him.

He met life with real appetite —always ready to try a new food, a new place, a new experience, simply because it was there to be tried. He was, by his own cheerful admission, an adequate but never great bridge player, a poor golfer who liked a good walk, and an ok racquet ball player until his knees gave out. He never lost at ping pong, and his sharp mind made him a formidable Trivial Pursuit and Jeopardy player. He was also a wonderful cook. He loved music, old movies, chess, solitaire, and a good crossword.

Even as Parkinson’s took its toll, Joe found humor in difficult situations and remained positive until the end. Above all, he was a constant and devoted companion to Penny for over 50 years.

Over the years, he had many animals. At the time of his death he had a rescue English bulldog Stormy whom he dearly loved. Joe was able to remain in the family home until the end, living his life to the fullest extent possible.

Joe never set out to be extraordinary in any obvious way, but anyone who knew him will tell you he was one of a kind — a genuinely special guy, loved by everyone lucky enough to cross his path.

At Joe’s request, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life may be planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to an animal welfare organization, a Parkinson’s organization, or a veterans’ organization of your choice