James Robert Fletcher “Jimbo”
James Robert Fletcher, “Jimbo” to most, passed away November 20, 2017. He was born March 8, 1961, to Robert and Nancy Fletcher while stationed in Virginia. The family moved to Connecticut when James was 2 months old. He lived there until moving to California in 1985.
Jim is survived by parents Bob and Nancy, his sisters Linda (Mark) Metcalfe, nephews McAlister and Mason, Paula (Brett) Bishop, Nieces Chelsea, Brianna and Haley, Karen (Michael) Marino his nephew Austin and niece Liza.
Jim’s quest to find a place that was like a year-round summer in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, brought him first to Florida then to Los Angeles.
Running out of money and unable to find work, his traveling companion called a relative in Santa Barbara who offered them both work painting houses and a garage to sleep in until they got on their feet.
Jimbo worked in food service and then tended bar at the Mimosa restaurant.
From there he spent many years working at the Cliff Room on the Mesa.
After a short stint as a cab driver he found a bar, Freemans on De La Vina, that he purchased in 2000. Renaming it Jimboz, the bar has been a popular Santa Barbara hang-out for 17 years. He always considered his customers as his west coast family, who would readily join him to shoot pool, play video games, sing karaoke, or root for his favorite teams, the Boston Red Socks and New York Giants. The non-sports fans enjoyed Jimboz as a place to join in celebrations, find companionship, and engage in conversations.
Jim was a charitable man who shared his success with others. He sponsored local events and benefits, with most contributions made to children’s organization and of course the sports teams of his nieces and nephews.
Other interests were barbecuing for large crowds like his sister Linda’s wedding rehearsal dinner. In his younger years he was a bowler of exceptional, near-professional skill. Jim enjoyed collecting antiques like coins and old pocket watches, and rare books. You could find him out early at yard and estate sales where he would snare what often became favored treasures.
Jim was easy to spot with his large physique and his iconic black corvette, one of many corvettes he owned over the years.
Jim’s family is deeply appreciative of his partner Yvonne, the Jimboz staff, and his many friends for their kind words, thoughts, and prayers.
A celebration for Jim is being planned and information will be announced and posted at Jimboz.
Lost but not forgotten, in our hearts forever, dear brother, uncle, friend, and beloved son.