Obituary of James P. Tarbert

 James P. Tarbert, 61, of Lemon Grove CA passed away from complications related to pancreatic cancer in his home surrounded by loved ones on Saturday the Third of September 2022. Born December 10th, 1960, in Rockford, Ill., to Molly Jean (Schwartz) and James Stanley Tarbert. James was raised in Pecatonica, Ill, and was a 1979 graduate of Winnebago High School. He served his country for eight years from 1982-1991 in the U.S Navy as a Boiler Tech and MP. He continued his career with the city of San Diego with whom he completed his 30th year of service in 2022. He married the love of his life Josie (Kane) in March of 2002, and they joyously celebrated 20 years of marriage together this year. 

Jim dedicated his life to caring for others through his commitment to unconditional love, generosity and ability to bring laughter to the lives of others. Jim invested much of his time in building community through his love and devotion to theater. His favorite on-stage roles include Lennie in “Of Mice and Men”, Feste in “Twelfth Night” and Christmas Present in “A Christmas Carol”. He was cast this year as the lead J.D. Drew. in the musical “Hands On A Hard Body.” 

 Loving husband, trusted friend, devoted brother, supportive uncle, mentor, wedding officiant, best man and midnight serenader, Jim expressed his love for others through his passion in fostering a sanctuary for the people in his life. His dedication to service found many people under his wing, He helped to shepard countless people in both his professional and personal relationships. Jim’s love for music and comedy guided him, and was one of the many beacons that drew people near. His legacy will be found in the those that he touched, and the relationships he forged..

Survived by his wife, Josie (Kane) and her extended family; Sisters, Becki (Robin) Tedrick, Kathi (David) Brake, and Kris Tarbert; Nieces and Nephews Trenton Tedrick, Rachael (Ryan) Rebsom, Kristin Tedrick, David (Meghan) Gillette, Emily (Victor) Martinez, Aaron Gillette and Colin (Marcie) Gillette. Predeceased by his mother Molly (Schwartz) Tarbert, Father James Stanley Tarbert and Niece Casey Tedrick. 

Special Thanks to: The staff and support network at the City of San Diego, notably: Cynthia Queen, Juan Aguirre, and Patrick Hadley. A very special thank you to the support staff at Kaiser hospice services for providing the help and comfort for both Jim and his family through a difficult time, and the care team at 4th West Kaiser Zion for their kindness and attention.  

Celebration arrangements for Jim are underway; a service will be held in San Diego and an interment service will be held in his home town of Pecatonica where he will be laid to rest. 

“ I am waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well nothing is hurt, nothing is lost” Henry Scott-Holland

Please consider making a donation in Jims memory to:

Onstage playhouse: 291 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910

https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?donation=osp

 

Pancreatic cancer action network: 1500 Rosecrans Ave #200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

https://secure.pancan.org/site/Donation2?df_id=2681&mfc_pref=T&2681.donation=form1

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