Ismael Garcia, PIA custodian at Avenal prison

Ismael Garcia, a California Prison Industry Authority custodian at Avenal State Prison, passed away Feb. 26, 2025.

He began his career with CDCR at Avenal State Prison as a custodian in February 2017.

“He was respected and cherished by all those who worked with him throughout the years. Ismael always greeted everyone with respect. Please keep the Garcia family in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time,” according to a statement issued by Avenal State Prison.

According to his family, he lived his whole life in Selma where he made many friends along the way. Growing up, he loved lowrider cars and was a member of the Valley Superiors car club.

Before working at the prison, he held various jobs in other industries, his family said.

As a teenager, he worked in the fields with his parents after school. At 19, he started working at Harris Ranch and was a butcher for about 15 years. Never afraid to try something different, he then began a new career as a machine operator for 10 years. After this, he again tried something different, becoming a bus driver for the school district.

“He enjoyed this job so much. He would make up songs getting ready for work,” his family said.

Avenal State Prison was the last job he had as a custodian supervisor. He enjoyed working there and would talk about his coworkers often. He never had issues with the incarcerated people he supervised because he always treated everyone with respect, his family said.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Rosalie, three children, seven grandchildren, a brother and sister.

Funeral services will be held on March 20 at Farewell-Page Funeral Chapel, 2014 Arrants St., Selma. Visitation is 4-6 p.m. Service follows from 6-7 p.m.

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

Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.