Jim Byford Jr. was born to Cecelia (Fraley) and Jim Byford in Fortuna. He grew up in Fortuna and was the youngest of three siblings.

While growing up in Fortuna he connected with many people, making lifelong friends. They made many memories together on Perras Court.

After he graduated highschool he moved to Yreka to help his mom take care of his Grandma Mary. He was always ready to lend a hand. While he lived there he had two children with Theresa (Pannell) Howard. His oldest was Jim Byford III (Sonny) and the youngest was Emma (Byford) Bal.

He touched many lives in Siskiyou County. He was a bus driver, an ice truck driver, and also worked at Nor-Cal. He had a twisted sense of humor and always said what was on his mind. You knew he was in the room by his boisterous laugh.

Later on he moved back to Fortuna. He was able to reconnect with many of his old childhood friends as well meeting many new people.

He was a hard worker right up until his death. In his spare time he would ride motorcycles with his many friends and family. He also enjoyed taking walks with his dogs at the old airport. His dog “Bean” went everywhere with him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Cecelia (Fraley) Johnson, his father Jim Byford, his sister Nancy Byford, his grandchildren Kyle, Leeann and Trianna. He is survived by Jim Byford III (Sonny), his wife Danielle, their children Emilee, Kaylah and Jaxson, Emma Bal, her husband Sam and their children Xyla, Willow, Nancy and River, his sister Elizabeth Pitek, her Husband Mike and her children.

His celebration of life will be held on May 4, 2025 at the Fortuna Veterans Memorial building from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.