Jim Estelle, retired corrections official

Ward James “Jim” Estelle, Jr., a retired corrections official, passed away Feb. 13, 2025. He was 93 years old.

He was a second-generation correctional employee. His father worked for Whittier, San Quentin, and Folsom State Prison. Estelle graduated eighth grade at the San Quentin school. When his father transferred to Folsom, the family moved with him to live on grounds.

Estelle followed in father’s footsteps

The younger Estelle began his California correctional career as an officer at Folsom State Prison in 1952. He served in the state’s second-oldest prison until transferring to parole in 1955.

In 1960, Estelle promoted to lieutenant at California Medical Facility in Vacaville. After California Correctional Center in Susanville was activated, he became associate superintendent at the new institution.

In 1970, he left California to serve as warden of Montana State Prison. Two years later, he was recruited to serve as the director of the Texas Department of Corrections, serving in the top post for 12 years.

After retiring from Texas corrections, he returned to California in 1987. He put his knowledge to work, serving as a manager of the California Prison Industry Authority for four years. He finally officially retired in 1991.

After retiring, he focused on volunteer work, including Friends Care, several years of service with the El Dorado County Grand Jury and decades of work with the General Service Office, serving as their chairman in a four-year term.

Estelle was an avid hunter and hiker, reaching the top of Mt. Lassen, Mt. Shasta and Mt. Whitney. He also enjoyed fishing trips and traveling.

He is survived by Marilyn, his wife of 74 years, his son Ward James III and daughters Lorraine and Linda.

A memorial service will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 31 at Green Valley Mortuary, 3004 Alexandrite Drive, Rescue.

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

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