James M. Aviles
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.
Obituary
With deep sadness, we announce the passing of James “Jimmy” Aviles, who was born on November 23, 1967, and passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026, in La Jolla, California, after a courageous five-year battle with metastatic colon cancer. He was just 58 years old. Throughout those years, Jimmy faced his illness largely in private. He never wanted cancer to define him or change the way people saw or treated him. Instead, he continued to live his life with the strength, determination, humor, and stubborn perseverance that those who knew him understood so well.
Jimmy was a devoted husband, father, Marine, and friend. He and his wife, Kelly, shared more than 39 years of marriage and a lifetime of memories together. They raised their two children, Alana and Michael, and built a life filled with family, adventures, challenges, laughter, and love.
Service was an important part of Jimmy’s life. He proudly served for 20 years in the United States Marine Corps before retiring as a Gunnery Sergeant from military service. That sense of responsibility and commitment stayed with him throughout his life and continued into his civilian career with the Department of Defense. He took pride in his work, but even greater pride in his family.
Jimmy loved his family deeply. He was enormously proud of his children and the adults they became, and he treasured the life he and Kelly had built together. His love was not always expressed through grand gestures. Often, it could be found in the everyday things—the conversations, the teasing, the projects, the routines, the trips, and simply being there when his family needed him.
Those closest to Jimmy knew his strength, his independence, and his determination to do things his own way. They also knew the man underneath it all: someone who loved deeply, cared about the people in his life, and believed in making the most of the life he was given. He enjoyed the experiences, adventures, and everyday moments that made life worth living—and he wasn't about to let cancer take those away from him.
Even during the most difficult years of his illness, Jimmy kept moving forward. Many people never knew the extent of what he was facing because that was exactly how he wanted it. Cancer was something he had; it was never who he was.
Jimmy leaves behind a lifetime of stories and memories that cannot possibly be captured in a few paragraphs. He will be remembered as a husband and partner of more than 39 years, a proud father, a retired Marine, and a man who fought extraordinarily hard to remain present for the people he loved.
His absence leaves an enormous space in the lives of those who loved him. But so much of Jimmy remains—in his children, in the family he built, in the stories that will continue to be told, and in more than four decades of memories shared with the people who knew him best.
He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed.
Timeline
1967
November 23rd
Born
1984
November
Met Kelly
1985
June
Graduated from Venice High School
1985
October 1st
Enlisted in the US Marine Corps
1987
July 4th
Married Kelly
1987
December 27th
Birth of his daughter, Alana
1990
August
Deployed to Saudi Arabia Operation Desert Shield
1990
September 16th
Birth of his son, Michael
1991
July
Return from deployment Operation Desert Storm
1994
June
Became a Marine Corps Drill Instructor
1996
June
Completed His Tour as a Drill Instructor
2005
October 30th
Retired from the US Marine Corps
2010
September 13th
Began His Civilian Career with the Department of Defense
2013
June 8th
Alana's wedding
2014
June
First Bareboat charter in British Virgin Islands (BVI)
2015
June
Moved to Sicily, Italy for work
2017
September
Crewed on sailboat from England to Malta, 2400 miles
2017
October
Crewed on sailboat in the Rolex Middle Sea Race in Malta
2018
October
Returned from Italy
2019
July
Bought his dream sailboat
2021
October
Diagnosed with Colon Cancer
Jimmy was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer, beginning a five-year journey that he faced with extraordinary strength, determination, and defiance.
2022
April
Trip to Orlando, FL and cruise to Bahamas
2022
October
Second Bareboat charter in BVI
2022
November
Cruise to the Mexican Riviera
2023
April
Bareboat charter in St. Lucia
2023
April
Trip to Tokyo, Japan
2024
July
Summer camping trip to Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks
2025
March
Cruise of the Sea of Cortez, Mexico
2025
May
Third Bareboat charter in BVI
2025
October
Trip to Sydney, Australia
2026
May
Two back-to-back cruises to Alaska and to the Bahamas
2026
September 5th
Passed Away
Gallery
Memory wall
Post a message or share your memories and photos.
October 15, 2026
I never had the opportunity to meet Jimmy and Kelly, but their friendship to my brother, Randy Brown was extraordinary - we had many interesting conversations about their adventures and plans for adventures. Randy would not have missed this opportunity to honor his friend, so I wanted to come on his behalf.
And, thank you to Jimmy and his family for their service to our country.
And, thank you to Jimmy and his family for their service to our country.
October 12, 2026
I was blessed to spend the last 3 years with Raymond, Tony's brother. I just want to say it was amazing to be a small part of the extraordinary life and memories made by Tony and Kelly. He loved so big and made me feel so welcomed. I loved watching Tony and a Kelly together and the amazing love for each other they had. I loved watching him and Raymond hug for 10 minutes when we departed each time. To the family: my sincere and deepest condolences and love to you guys!
October 11, 2026
Memories of a Venice Boy
• A Tribute to My Friend and Brother, Jimmy *
Jimmy and I both grew up in Venice, California. I was two years ahead of him in school, and we attended Mark Twain Junior High School before moving on to Venice High School. Despite growing up in the same neighborhood, we never really knew each other back then. Little did we know how many times our paths would cross in the years ahead.
Two Boys, One Journey
After graduating from high school in 1983, I enlisted in the Marine Corps as part of a buddy team with several friends, including Victor Ariola. I had no idea Vic was Jimmy’s cousin. Two years later, in 1985, Jimmy graduated from Venice High and joined the Marine Corps, beginning his own journey.
In 1994, our paths finally brought us to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, where we attended Drill Instructor School. Our class had around a hundred Marines, but somehow, we still didn't get to know each other personally. We spent two demanding years as drill instructors, working long hours and focusing on transforming recruits into Marines. We'd occasionally cross paths, exchange a quick hello, and continue with our duties.
In 1996, we completed our tours and returned to the fleet. I went back to 1st Force Reconnaissance Company, never realizing that a guy who had grown up in my own neighborhood and attended my schools was still someone I barely knew.
The Party That Changed Everything
Our friendship finally began through Anthony Scognamillio, a classmate from Drill Instructor School. After our tours ended, Anthony invited me to a party at his home. A small band was playing, and Jimmy was behind the drums.
I recognized him from MCRD, and as we talked, we discovered we'd both grown up in Venice, attended the same schools, and lived in the same neighborhood. Then I mentioned that I'd enlisted in 1983 with a group of friends, including Victor Ariola. Jimmy immediately recognized the name and told me Vic was his cousin.
Suddenly, another piece of the puzzle fell into place. Two boys from Venice had attended the same schools, served in the Marine Corps, and spent two years at the same base as drill instructors, yet only now were discovering how much their lives had in common.
From that evening on, we had a shared history to explore and a friendship that continued to grow.
Crossing Paths Again at Force Recon
A few years later, Jimmy showed up at 1st Force Reconnaissance Company. If my memory serves me correctly, he initially worked in the boat locker outside his military occupational specialty before attending Basic Reconnaissance Course and earning his 0321 MOS.
After a couple of deployments, I left the company around 2000 and moved on to other assignments. In 2005, I left the Marine Corps, thinking that chapter of my life had come to a close. I had no idea another reunion with Jimmy was just around the corner.
An Unexpected Reunion in Oceanside
After leaving the Marine Corps, I took a job with the City of Oceanside, working downtown at the Sunset Market. One day, a man and a woman approached me. I looked at the man and immediately recognized him.
It was Jimmy.
He told me he'd recently returned from Italy, where he'd taken an assignment after leaving the Marine Corps. Then came another surprise: he lived just a football throw away from me, down the hill.
Think about that. Two boys who grew up in Venice, attended the same schools, and served in the Marine Corps had found their way back into each other's lives, only to discover they were now practically neighbors.
Our paths had crossed at MCRD, at Force Recon, and now in downtown Oceanside. Life kept finding ways to bring us together.
Sailing, Catalina, and Memories I'll Always Treasure
Jimmy loved sailing, and I was fortunate to share that passion with him. Shortly after completing his sailing certification, he was eager to gain experience and move up to larger boats. I joined him on a couple of sails out of Camp Pendleton and got to experience firsthand the excitement he found on the water.
In our later years, Jimmy had a 43-foot sailboat, and we spent time together aboard it. Sometimes we didn't even leave the harbor. We'd sit in the boat slip, have a few beers, talk about life, and enjoy each other's company. We didn't need a destination or a schedule. Being together was enough.
One of my fondest memories was our trip to Catalina Island. We enjoyed tacos, took a walk, and Jimmy introduced me to a Cadillac margarita. And, of course, there was the time we got wicky-de-wacked on Catalina. That memory still brings a smile to my face.
Jimmy was a fun-loving, life-loving guy who knew how to enjoy himself. We danced for joy at a St. Patrick's Day party, sang karaoke together, and found plenty of reasons to laugh. Whether we were sailing, sitting on his boat, exploring Catalina, dancing, or singing, those ordinary moments became extraordinary memories.
A Friendship I'll Always Carry With Me
When I look back on my friendship with Jimmy, I'm amazed at how many times our paths crossed. We began as two boys from Venice who attended the same schools but never really knew each other. The Marine Corps brought us into the same orbit, and years later, after we'd both left that life behind, we found each other again in Oceanside.
What started as a series of coincidences became a friendship filled with shared stories, laughter, sailing, and memories I'll always treasure.
I wish we'd had more time together—more days on the water, more trips, more laughs, and more memories. But I'm grateful for the time we did have and for the friendship that grew between us.
I'll remember Jimmy not only as a Marine, but as the friend who shared his love of sailing, introduced me to a Cadillac margarita, danced and sang karaoke with me, and made ordinary days memorable. Most of all, I'll remember him as a brother.
Life has a funny way of bringing people together. Jimmy and I may not have known each other as kids, but somehow, after all those years, we found our way to each other. I'm thankful we did.
Jimmy, I miss you, buddy. I love you, brother.
You'll always be remembered as someone who made life brighter just by being in it. No matter how many years pass, I'll always be grateful that two boys from Venice eventually found their way to each other.
Love you, Jimmy. Until we meet again, brother.
• A Tribute to My Friend and Brother, Jimmy *
Jimmy and I both grew up in Venice, California. I was two years ahead of him in school, and we attended Mark Twain Junior High School before moving on to Venice High School. Despite growing up in the same neighborhood, we never really knew each other back then. Little did we know how many times our paths would cross in the years ahead.
Two Boys, One Journey
After graduating from high school in 1983, I enlisted in the Marine Corps as part of a buddy team with several friends, including Victor Ariola. I had no idea Vic was Jimmy’s cousin. Two years later, in 1985, Jimmy graduated from Venice High and joined the Marine Corps, beginning his own journey.
In 1994, our paths finally brought us to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, where we attended Drill Instructor School. Our class had around a hundred Marines, but somehow, we still didn't get to know each other personally. We spent two demanding years as drill instructors, working long hours and focusing on transforming recruits into Marines. We'd occasionally cross paths, exchange a quick hello, and continue with our duties.
In 1996, we completed our tours and returned to the fleet. I went back to 1st Force Reconnaissance Company, never realizing that a guy who had grown up in my own neighborhood and attended my schools was still someone I barely knew.
The Party That Changed Everything
Our friendship finally began through Anthony Scognamillio, a classmate from Drill Instructor School. After our tours ended, Anthony invited me to a party at his home. A small band was playing, and Jimmy was behind the drums.
I recognized him from MCRD, and as we talked, we discovered we'd both grown up in Venice, attended the same schools, and lived in the same neighborhood. Then I mentioned that I'd enlisted in 1983 with a group of friends, including Victor Ariola. Jimmy immediately recognized the name and told me Vic was his cousin.
Suddenly, another piece of the puzzle fell into place. Two boys from Venice had attended the same schools, served in the Marine Corps, and spent two years at the same base as drill instructors, yet only now were discovering how much their lives had in common.
From that evening on, we had a shared history to explore and a friendship that continued to grow.
Crossing Paths Again at Force Recon
A few years later, Jimmy showed up at 1st Force Reconnaissance Company. If my memory serves me correctly, he initially worked in the boat locker outside his military occupational specialty before attending Basic Reconnaissance Course and earning his 0321 MOS.
After a couple of deployments, I left the company around 2000 and moved on to other assignments. In 2005, I left the Marine Corps, thinking that chapter of my life had come to a close. I had no idea another reunion with Jimmy was just around the corner.
An Unexpected Reunion in Oceanside
After leaving the Marine Corps, I took a job with the City of Oceanside, working downtown at the Sunset Market. One day, a man and a woman approached me. I looked at the man and immediately recognized him.
It was Jimmy.
He told me he'd recently returned from Italy, where he'd taken an assignment after leaving the Marine Corps. Then came another surprise: he lived just a football throw away from me, down the hill.
Think about that. Two boys who grew up in Venice, attended the same schools, and served in the Marine Corps had found their way back into each other's lives, only to discover they were now practically neighbors.
Our paths had crossed at MCRD, at Force Recon, and now in downtown Oceanside. Life kept finding ways to bring us together.
Sailing, Catalina, and Memories I'll Always Treasure
Jimmy loved sailing, and I was fortunate to share that passion with him. Shortly after completing his sailing certification, he was eager to gain experience and move up to larger boats. I joined him on a couple of sails out of Camp Pendleton and got to experience firsthand the excitement he found on the water.
In our later years, Jimmy had a 43-foot sailboat, and we spent time together aboard it. Sometimes we didn't even leave the harbor. We'd sit in the boat slip, have a few beers, talk about life, and enjoy each other's company. We didn't need a destination or a schedule. Being together was enough.
One of my fondest memories was our trip to Catalina Island. We enjoyed tacos, took a walk, and Jimmy introduced me to a Cadillac margarita. And, of course, there was the time we got wicky-de-wacked on Catalina. That memory still brings a smile to my face.
Jimmy was a fun-loving, life-loving guy who knew how to enjoy himself. We danced for joy at a St. Patrick's Day party, sang karaoke together, and found plenty of reasons to laugh. Whether we were sailing, sitting on his boat, exploring Catalina, dancing, or singing, those ordinary moments became extraordinary memories.
A Friendship I'll Always Carry With Me
When I look back on my friendship with Jimmy, I'm amazed at how many times our paths crossed. We began as two boys from Venice who attended the same schools but never really knew each other. The Marine Corps brought us into the same orbit, and years later, after we'd both left that life behind, we found each other again in Oceanside.
What started as a series of coincidences became a friendship filled with shared stories, laughter, sailing, and memories I'll always treasure.
I wish we'd had more time together—more days on the water, more trips, more laughs, and more memories. But I'm grateful for the time we did have and for the friendship that grew between us.
I'll remember Jimmy not only as a Marine, but as the friend who shared his love of sailing, introduced me to a Cadillac margarita, danced and sang karaoke with me, and made ordinary days memorable. Most of all, I'll remember him as a brother.
Life has a funny way of bringing people together. Jimmy and I may not have known each other as kids, but somehow, after all those years, we found our way to each other. I'm thankful we did.
Jimmy, I miss you, buddy. I love you, brother.
You'll always be remembered as someone who made life brighter just by being in it. No matter how many years pass, I'll always be grateful that two boys from Venice eventually found their way to each other.
Love you, Jimmy. Until we meet again, brother.
October 10, 2026
Great guy. I had the pleasure of sailing from the UK to Malta with him. Being an ex military, we had a fantastic time. In Cascais, Lisbon we ended up in the local Cuban bar, two grown men on the dance floor, castanets in our hands, shaking our ass. The locals loved it and we got a free beer. Deepest condolences for your loss
October 10, 2026
Always smiling. That’s how I remember Jimmy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
October 10, 2026
I will miss him dearly. He was a good friend, Marine, peer, and husband. Many times we would go to lunch or have drinks. Gone but not forgotten. Semper Fi brother.I will see you again in the next life. May his glass never be empty, his laughter always be heard, and his sails filled with steady wind! Lov u bro
October 10, 2026
He was one of a kind. He loved with his whole heart. His smile and laughter was contagious. So grateful he found Kelly and shared so many cool adventures. That is the true love story
October 10, 2026
I have many fond memories at the Aviles house as a child. May he rest in peace.
October 10, 2026
He was an amazing brother-in-law, so glad he was married to Kelly. They made a great team! Much love, he is being missed.
October 10, 2026
I have always been so impressed with Jimmy! His sense of adventure, determination, service, commitment, and his love for you has filled me with respect and gratitude. I love you!
October 10, 2026
Jimmy was an amazing human and wonderful husband, father, friend. He was a Marine that lived a life of service that continued after active duty and that few others understand. He was a silent professional that worked hard and played harder. We learned to sail together, and we adventured the world together with our families sharing our experiences and taking care of each other. He taught me many things and all of the funnest ones came after the bell ringing on his boat. Jimmy is a brother from another mother to me, and I will miss him dearly. I will remember him and share sea stories of our adventures often. Fair winds and following seas my friend. We have the watch. Arrrr!
September 20, 2026
Dear Aviles Family,
When I found out about Jimmy’s passing I debated whether to reach out or not. A lot of time has passed since we saw each other and one wonders if reaching out is appropriate now so late in life. I know, it doesn’t make sense not to reach out especially when we witness first hand that our time on Earth is so limited.
I cannot imagine the pain you are all in. These last few days I’ve replayed many fond memories of the times I spent hanging out with you Alana, and your brother, either after school or on a weekend. Jimmy and Kelly always made me feel welcomed, with a kindness and generosity that they passed on to their kids and that I happily bore witness to.
To say that I’m sorry for your loss is not enough to comfort even an inch of the depth of what you’re feeling. It’s a loss that will never be filled. A loss you will learn to live with as you become someone new. Because grief will change you. It changes all of us. It will hurt now and it will hurt tomorrow and the day after. But one day this grief will be feel like a friend you carry with you, when you see something or hear something that reminds you of your favorite moment with him.
I remember as kid, Michael telling me Jimmy was a Marine and I pictured a very strict and serious man only to later meet him and learn he was the exact opposite--- a funny, playful and loving Dad. He defied all the stoic Marine stereotypes we encounter in TV. And while he was fun to be around he also had the ability to make people feel safe. Never once in your home did I ever feel like I didn’t belong. He possessed a warmth and kindness that one can never forget and only think fondly of.
He was the funniest guy in the room, but what I noticed the most growing up, was how much he enjoyed making Kelly laugh. Though my memories are fuzzy, the clearest ones are of them laughing when entering or exiting a room together. I cannot imagine him any other way. But most of all, I cannot imagine Kelly without him by her side.
I am forever thankful for your kindness and generosity to me. Coming from an overprotective mother, your parents were the only ones she liked and trusted wholeheartedly. I will always be grateful for the time I spent with your family.
I am so, so incredibly sorry Kelly, Alana and Michael.
All my best, Alma.
When I found out about Jimmy’s passing I debated whether to reach out or not. A lot of time has passed since we saw each other and one wonders if reaching out is appropriate now so late in life. I know, it doesn’t make sense not to reach out especially when we witness first hand that our time on Earth is so limited.
I cannot imagine the pain you are all in. These last few days I’ve replayed many fond memories of the times I spent hanging out with you Alana, and your brother, either after school or on a weekend. Jimmy and Kelly always made me feel welcomed, with a kindness and generosity that they passed on to their kids and that I happily bore witness to.
To say that I’m sorry for your loss is not enough to comfort even an inch of the depth of what you’re feeling. It’s a loss that will never be filled. A loss you will learn to live with as you become someone new. Because grief will change you. It changes all of us. It will hurt now and it will hurt tomorrow and the day after. But one day this grief will be feel like a friend you carry with you, when you see something or hear something that reminds you of your favorite moment with him.
I remember as kid, Michael telling me Jimmy was a Marine and I pictured a very strict and serious man only to later meet him and learn he was the exact opposite--- a funny, playful and loving Dad. He defied all the stoic Marine stereotypes we encounter in TV. And while he was fun to be around he also had the ability to make people feel safe. Never once in your home did I ever feel like I didn’t belong. He possessed a warmth and kindness that one can never forget and only think fondly of.
He was the funniest guy in the room, but what I noticed the most growing up, was how much he enjoyed making Kelly laugh. Though my memories are fuzzy, the clearest ones are of them laughing when entering or exiting a room together. I cannot imagine him any other way. But most of all, I cannot imagine Kelly without him by her side.
I am forever thankful for your kindness and generosity to me. Coming from an overprotective mother, your parents were the only ones she liked and trusted wholeheartedly. I will always be grateful for the time I spent with your family.
I am so, so incredibly sorry Kelly, Alana and Michael.
All my best, Alma.
September 15, 2026
I first met Jimmy back in '86 when he and Kelly had started dating. He was always full of life and ready for the next adventure.
September 13, 2026
**My Dad**
My dad was the most amazing man I have ever had the immense privilege of knowing.
The life he lived was extraordinary. He was a husband, father, brother, friend, Marine, drummer, climber, biker, lover of nature, builder, fixer, sailor, captain, pirate, and so much more. He possessed a quiet confidence that drew people—and even animals—to him. He could be intimidating at first, but once you knew him, you couldn’t help but like him.
As a father, there wasn’t much he wouldn’t do for my brother and me. He supported us, protected us, guided us, taught us skills, and encouraged us to be the best versions of ourselves we could be. But he never expected us to be somebody we weren’t. He wanted us to be exactly who we were, and he was proud of us for it.
When we made mistakes and were disciplined, he would explain why what we had done was wrong, why he had to discipline us, and, most importantly, that he still loved us no matter what. He knew how to be our parent, but he also knew how to joke with us, be silly with us, and make us laugh. He was someone we could always look up to. He was a hero.
As a family, we went on so many adventures. We explored, built things, traveled, learned, and experienced life together. Those memories are some of the greatest gifts he ever gave me, and I am so grateful for every one of them.
I know my dad meant a great deal to a great many people—far more than he ever realized. It is difficult to fathom that he isn’t here anymore. He was always such a strong presence in my life that it is hard to imagine a life without him in it.
But I will always have everything he taught me. He taught me to love nature, music, family, technology, and life itself. I will always have the love he gave me. I will always have the memories we shared. I will always carry the lessons he taught me. And I will always have the privilege of calling him my dad.
He fought cancer so hard. He fought with everything he had. He wanted so badly to beat it, and for a long time, he did.
I miss him. I will always miss him.
I will always love him.
He was the best dad a girl could ask for.
And I am devastated that I have to say goodbye.
My dad was the most amazing man I have ever had the immense privilege of knowing.
The life he lived was extraordinary. He was a husband, father, brother, friend, Marine, drummer, climber, biker, lover of nature, builder, fixer, sailor, captain, pirate, and so much more. He possessed a quiet confidence that drew people—and even animals—to him. He could be intimidating at first, but once you knew him, you couldn’t help but like him.
As a father, there wasn’t much he wouldn’t do for my brother and me. He supported us, protected us, guided us, taught us skills, and encouraged us to be the best versions of ourselves we could be. But he never expected us to be somebody we weren’t. He wanted us to be exactly who we were, and he was proud of us for it.
When we made mistakes and were disciplined, he would explain why what we had done was wrong, why he had to discipline us, and, most importantly, that he still loved us no matter what. He knew how to be our parent, but he also knew how to joke with us, be silly with us, and make us laugh. He was someone we could always look up to. He was a hero.
As a family, we went on so many adventures. We explored, built things, traveled, learned, and experienced life together. Those memories are some of the greatest gifts he ever gave me, and I am so grateful for every one of them.
I know my dad meant a great deal to a great many people—far more than he ever realized. It is difficult to fathom that he isn’t here anymore. He was always such a strong presence in my life that it is hard to imagine a life without him in it.
But I will always have everything he taught me. He taught me to love nature, music, family, technology, and life itself. I will always have the love he gave me. I will always have the memories we shared. I will always carry the lessons he taught me. And I will always have the privilege of calling him my dad.
He fought cancer so hard. He fought with everything he had. He wanted so badly to beat it, and for a long time, he did.
I miss him. I will always miss him.
I will always love him.
He was the best dad a girl could ask for.
And I am devastated that I have to say goodbye.
September 13, 2026
Rest In Peace Jimmy. Semper Fi. God bless 🙏 you and your family. You did great; and I'm honored to have been your friend.
September 11, 2026
I was lucky enough to visit Jimmy and Kelly while they were living in Sicily. I stayed with them for a few weeks, celebrated Christmas, and rang in the New Year. I realized looking back the only picture I have of him during that trip was in the mirror before we took some after dinner limoncella shots. We enjoyed so many great meals and drinks together.
Jimmy was always quick to laugh and enjoy life. He was such great company and I’m so happy to have gotten to know him.
Even though no new memories will be made, I will cherish the ones I have. I still dream of the smoked salmon you made that Christmas. It truly ruined my ability to eat any other salmon as nothing can compare ❤️
Jimmy was always quick to laugh and enjoy life. He was such great company and I’m so happy to have gotten to know him.
Even though no new memories will be made, I will cherish the ones I have. I still dream of the smoked salmon you made that Christmas. It truly ruined my ability to eat any other salmon as nothing can compare ❤️
September 10, 2026
Over nearly twenty years, Jimmy and Kelly haven't just been close friends—they have been family. Jimmy loved big, lived boldly, and brought so much light, warmth, and laughter into our lives. Both we and our children loved him dearly, and he held such a special place in all of our hearts.
His adventurous spirit was contagious. Whether we were traveling across the globe to Japan, navigating the waters of Catalina and the BVI, or enjoying simple, great times together right at home near the Oceanside beach and harbor, every moment shared with him was special.
Jimmy, we miss you deeply, but the love and memories you gave us will stay with us forever. Fair winds and following seas, our dear friend. Have the sailboat ready and the karaoke mic tuned for the most epic party when we meet again.
His adventurous spirit was contagious. Whether we were traveling across the globe to Japan, navigating the waters of Catalina and the BVI, or enjoying simple, great times together right at home near the Oceanside beach and harbor, every moment shared with him was special.
Jimmy, we miss you deeply, but the love and memories you gave us will stay with us forever. Fair winds and following seas, our dear friend. Have the sailboat ready and the karaoke mic tuned for the most epic party when we meet again.
September 9, 2026
I will look for more photos this weekend … I think I have the ones he was a Drill Instructor for a day with Brian
Family tree
Kelly Aviles
Raymond Aviles
Alana Olson
Michael Aviles
Raymond Aviles
Kelly Aviles
Alana Olson
Michael Aviles
James Aviles
Favorites
What was James favorite Travel destination?
BVI
What was James's favorite Movie?
Jaws
What was James's favorite Local spot?
Oceanside Harbor
Fun fact about James:
He could find somebody he knew in the unlikeliest of places (including finding somebody he knew from Oceanside in Europe)
Service
Please join us as we honor and celebrate the life of James “Jimmy” Aviles.
Family and friends are invited to gather with us at Miramar National Cemetery, where Jimmy will be laid to rest with military honors in recognition of his 20 years of service in the United States Marine Corps.
We will come together to remember the life he lived, the people he loved, the adventures he embraced, and the many memories he leaves with us.
Your presence would mean so much to our family as we say goodbye to a deeply loved husband, father, Marine, family member, and friend.
UPDATED: Service Arrival Information
Guests attending Jimmy's military honors service on Thursday, October 15, are asked to arrive between 10:00 and 10:15 a.m. and proceed to Assembly Lane 3. Please leave room at the front of the lane for the hearse.
At approximately 10:20 a.m., we will follow the procession to the committal shelter. The service will begin promptly at 10:30 a.m. and will last approximately 30 minutes.
The ceremony will include military honors, presentation of the American flag, and an anticipated rifle salute. There will also be a brief opportunity for anyone who wishes to share a memory or say a few words about Jimmy.
Seating is limited, with additional standing room available under and around the shelter.
Following the Service — A Gathering of Family and Friends
Family and friends are warmly invited to join us at our home in Oceanside from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. to share memories, stories, laughter, and friendship as we celebrate Jimmy's life.
Light food and refreshments will be provided. Anyone who would like to bring a dish to share is welcome to, but certainly not obligated.
Please contact me privately for our address and directions.
We look forward to remembering and celebrating Jimmy together. ❤️
UPDATED: Service Arrival Information
Guests attending Jimmy's military honors service on Thursday, October 15, are asked to arrive between 10:00 and 10:15 a.m. and proceed to Assembly Lane 3. Please leave room at the front of the lane for the hearse.
At approximately 10:20 a.m., we will follow the procession to the committal shelter. The service will begin promptly at 10:30 a.m. and will last approximately 30 minutes.
The ceremony will include military honors, presentation of the American flag, and an anticipated rifle salute. There will also be a brief opportunity for anyone who wishes to share a memory or say a few words about Jimmy.
Seating is limited, with additional standing room available under and around the shelter.
Following the Service — A Gathering of Family and Friends
Family and friends are warmly invited to join us at our home in Oceanside from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. to share memories, stories, laughter, and friendship as we celebrate Jimmy's life.
Light food and refreshments will be provided. Anyone who would like to bring a dish to share is welcome to, but certainly not obligated.
Please contact me privately for our address and directions.
We look forward to remembering and celebrating Jimmy together. ❤️
Miramar National Cemetery
5795 Nobel Drive
San Diego, CA 92122
5795 Nobel Drive
San Diego, CA 92122
Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.
Service with military honors will last approximately 30 minutes.
Service with military honors will last approximately 30 minutes.
RSVP
If you plan to join us for Jimmy’s service at Miramar National Cemetery, please let us know below. This will simply help us have an idea of how many family and friends will be attending.
HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ATTENDING WITH YOU?
made with 
Français
Deutsch
Nederlands
Español
Português
Magyar
Русский
繁體中文