Anthony “Tony” Frank Jimenez
Anthony (Tony) Frank Jimenez, devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and trusted friend, passed away on November 20, 2025. He had been surrounded by family for several days while at Cottage Hospital and was later transferred to hospice care at Sara’s House, where he passed peacefully at the age of 97. His life was defined by countless small acts of generosity, patience, and care. Tony was born in Santa Barbara on June 28, 1928, to Anthony James Jimenez and Dorothy Ann Gavin, and he lived his entire life in the community he loved. He worked in his father’s grocery store while attending Santa Barbara Junior High School and later graduated from Santa Barbara High School in 1946.
After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on September 18, 1946, and was stationed at Camp Pendleton. He proudly served his country for two years and was honorably discharged as a Corporal on August 11, 1948. His time in the Marine Corps shaped his lifelong sense of responsibility, discipline, and humility — qualities that guided how he lived, worked, and cared for those around him.
Tony returned home to Santa Barbara to work in his father’s grocery store while attending business school. During this time, he met Doris, also a graduate of Santa Barbara High School and a lifelong resident of the community. They became engaged in 1949 and were married on May 21, 1950. The couple began their life together in a brand-new home on Foothill Road, built by Tony and his father-in-law.
He started his career at Ott’s Hardware Service Center, where he later became manager. There, his knowledge of building and materials continued to grow. After many years, he was offered a position as a sales representative for the Haldeman Company. His sales territory stretched north to Paso Robles, east to Bakersfield, and south to Thousand Oaks. Tony enjoyed the work, as it allowed him to serve longtime customers while forming new friendships along the way. He retired from the company in 1999.
Together, Tony and Doris built a life rooted in love, hard work, and deep commitment to family. Their home quickly became a gathering place filled with laughter, shared meals, and a steady welcome for relatives, friends, and neighbors alike. He found his greatest joy in everyday moments — raising his children, sharing stories at the dinner table, celebrating milestones, and watching his family grow to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He led by example, teaching patience, kindness, and quiet strength. His steady presence, gentle humor, and generous spirit created a foundation of love that will continue to guide his family for generations.
One of the most meaningful parts of Tony’s life was his long and devoted involvement with Santa Barbara Elks Lodge #613. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became an active and dedicated member, embracing the Elks’ values of service, charity, and fellowship. Over more than sixty years, he volunteered on numerous committees, served twice as Exalted Ruler, and held both district and state leadership positions. For Tony, the Lodge was more than an organization — it was his second home, a community where he built lifelong friendships and quietly gave his time to help others.
Tony is survived by his wife of 75 years, Doris; his daughter Debbie Thaten; his daughter and son-in-law Patty and Calvin Fujiwara; his son Michael Jimenez; his grandchildren Kristen (Andrew) Maltese, Amy (Ryan) Smith, and Justin (Maritza)Fujiwara, Carlos Jimenez, and Nikki (Danny)Fuhs; and his great-grandchildren Theodore, Audrey, Isabella, Sofia, and Lukas.
Tony will be remembered for his warm heart, dependable nature, and the countless ways he made life better for those around him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the community he faithfully served. He is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.
A service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Elks Lodge #613, 150 N. Kellogg Avenue.
Please RSVP by March 10 to elks613tj@gmail.com if attending. A dessert potluck will follow
