Godfrey “Jock” Narin

Godfrey “Jock” Nairn
January 11, 1939 – June 7, 2008

Longtime Santa Barbara resident Jock Nairn died June 7th of an apparent heart attack at his home in Jacksonville, Florida.

Jock was born in India where he spent his early years. On his mother’s death, he returned to Scotland to his family home near Lockerbie and was educated in boarding schools until, as the proverbial black sheep of the family, he left to become a fighter pilot with the Royal Air Force, flying combat missions during the Suez war. An unfortunate display of youthful exuberance involving a RAF jet and a well known bridge in London abruptly ended Jock’s military career and enabled him to complete his engineering degree at the University of Saint Andrews, Scotland.

Jock then chose to follow his true calling, working with Formula One racing teams throughout Europe and the world. An opportunity with the well known Newman-Haas racing team brought Jock to Santa Barbara where he became well known for his vintage automobile and motorcycle restorations. His restorations took top honors in many respected Concours d’Elegance.

Jock is also remembered for his love of Indian cooking and it was at one of the legendary dinners at his De La Vina Street home that he met his future wife, Carol. They were married January 2, 2000 in St. Giles Presbyterian Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Carol was at Jock’s side at his passing.