James Lewis Worthen, age 85, of Eureka, passed away on Dec. 27, 2024 following an extended illness. On Aug 15, 1939, he was born in Eureka as the son of the late Jim and Evelyn Worthen of Eureka. On Nov. 6, 1960, he married Ruth E. Faller of Banning. They shared 64 years of marriage.

Children and grandchildren include son Jim Worthen and wife Bonnie of Huntington Beach; son Michael Worthen of Eureka; daughter Deborah House and husband Chris of Eureka; and granddaughter Olivia Worthen of Huntington Beach. Siblings include brother Robert Worthen and wife Toni of Oregon; sister Carolyn Powell and husband Gary of Oregon.

He worked for Humboldt Market for 13 years and entered the insurance business in 1968 as an agent. In 1983 he purchased Vickers Insurance as owner/agent. He retired Oct. 1, 2005. He attended Faith Center Church and spent 40 years in the Kiwanis Club. He was active in US Jaycees and spend 12 years as Commissioner for Eureka Housing Authority and 7 years for North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board.

Jim was born and raised in Eureka, where he lived his entire life. He graduated from Eureka High School, class of 1957. He attended Pasadena College for two years.

He was a lifelong stamp collector and world traveler. Jim was deeply involved in local and state politics and community services.

Some of Jim’s proudest achievements were being elected to Eureka City Council in 1981 and reelected to four years terms in 1984, 1988 and 1992. Jim was active in League of California cities and events. He was elected state president in 1996. Jim was a natural-born leader (often called a statesman). His accomplishments are too many to mention.

Jim acknowledges and thanks the community, family and close friends for their support and involvement over the years. He dearly loved and enjoyed his work in politics. He will certainly be missed by us all.

A family service was held at Ocean View Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Jim Worthen’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.