John “Johnny” Vega
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John “Johnny” Vega, who peacefully passed away on April 29, 2026, at the age of 76. Born in Carpinteria, California, on July 23, 1949, John spent his life rooted in Santa Barbara County, where he became known not only for his distinguished public service but also for his love of music, Puerto Rican heritage, friendship, and community.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Lorenzo and Juanita Vega; one sister; and five brothers. He is lovingly survived by his sisters, Juanita Vega and Maria Eulalia Vega, along with many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends throughout Santa Barbara County.
Music was woven into every part of John’s life. He picked up the guitar as a teenager and became especially known for his heartfelt renditions of Beatles classics. He performed with several local bands, most notably the salsa group Son Santa Bruta, and shared his remarkable voice as the featured soloist with the Santa Barbara City College Madrigal Singers. Whether performing on stage or enjoying a live concert, John believed music was meant to be shared.
Equally important to him was celebrating and preserving his Puerto Rican heritage. He was a passionate student of Puerto Rican history and culture and loved introducing others to its rich traditions. He found great joy in gathering around a table with family and friends, exploring Santa Barbara’s wonderful restaurants, and treating others to memorable meals, concerts, and experiences. His generosity was never measured by possessions, but by the joy he found in sharing what he loved.
Professionally, John devoted more than 25 years to the City of Santa Barbara Community Development Department. Beginning in 1985 as a receptionist in the Planning Division, he advanced through several positions before becoming an Accounting Assistant in the Administration Division. He earned the Planning Department’s “Local Hero” Award for exceptional customer service and became affectionately known as the department’s “trench warrior” for his unwavering dedication, institutional knowledge, and willingness to help everyone around him. His integrity, kindness, and remarkable work ethic left a lasting impression on coworkers and the community he served.
John attended Aliso School and graduated from Carpinteria High School before continuing his education at Santa Barbara City College and Bryant & Stratton Business Institute (formerly Santa Barbara Business College), where he pursued his passion for music.
Those who knew John will remember his gentle heart, welcoming smile, quick wit, and sincere belief in the goodness of people. He had an incredible gift for making others feel seen, valued, and included. One of his favorite sayings captured his outlook perfectly: “We do not allow ugly people in our family—they are all beautiful.”
It was more than a saying—it was how he lived. He believed beauty came from kindness, compassion, and the way we treated one another.
A Community Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Ledbetter Beach Group Picnic Area in Santa Barbara. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life beautifully lived. Kindly RSVP to sms@yourprgirls.com.
John also quietly supported causes close to his heart, including public radio through regular donations to NPR and other local community organizations. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to KCLU NPR Public Radio, honoring his lifelong love of music, storytelling, and community.
“Though the final note has been played, Johnny’s song lives on in every memory shared, every melody remembered, and every heart he touched.”
