Friends, family, and CDCR staff gathered in Hanford to pay their respects to Officer Jonathan Lee Townsend at a celebration of life held Oct. 11.
The 23-year veteran of CDCR passed away Sept. 11, 2025, while on duty at California State Prison, Corcoran.
“May Correctional Officer Jonathan Townsend be remembered for his professionalism and selflessness to carry out his duties to protect the people of California,” Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement issued Sept. 11. “Jennifer and I offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues as they mourn his loss. We are eternally grateful for his years of service to the people of California.”
>> Watch a video of the service.
>> Read the original obituary notice.
Officer Townsend celebration of life in photos
Photos by Chris Medina, Director (specialist), TV Communications Center
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
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