Centinela State Prison is mourning the April 10, 2026, passing of Licensed Vocational Nurse Chima Onyebuizu.
Onyebuizu began his career with the department in April 2015 at Calipatria State Prison.
In December 2015, he transferred to Centinela State Prison, where he remained until his passing.
“Chima was loved among all his peers and staff. His tall stature made it impossible not to be recognized, and he will be missed by all who knew him. Please join us in expressing our condolences, thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Chima,” said the institution.
Details regarding services are not yet available.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Related content
Brian McCauley, retired correctional officer
Brian McCauley, a retired correctional officer, passed away April 5, 2026. McCauley began his career at with the department in…
Lee Herron, retired correctional lieutenant
Lee Herron, a retired correctional lieutenant from California Health Care Facility, passed away March 25, 2026. Herron began his distinguished…
Lew Little, retired correctional officer
Lew Dwayne Little, a 72-year-old retired correctional officer, passed away suddenly Dec. 17, 2025, according to his family. A celebration…
SATF mourns the passing of Jennifer Medrano
Pharmacy Technician Jennifer Medrano, a valued staff member of the Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison (SATF) at Corcoran,…
Frank Marquardt, retired correctional sergeant
Frank Marquardt, a retired correctional sergeant, passed away on March 30, 2026. He worked for the department for two decades.…
KVSP mourns passing of Correctional Officer Jorge Pena
Correctional Officer Jorge Pena, a dedicated member of the Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP) team, passed away on March 24,…