Calipatria State Prison is mourning the passing of Correctional Supervising Cook Cassell Jones who passed away Aug. 28, 2026.

Jones worked for the department for 18 years. Services will be held Sept. 11 in Blythe.
Jones began his career at Ironwood State Prison in Blythe in September 2008 as a materials and stores supervisor. In February 2009, he promoted to correctional supervising cook at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison.
In July 2025, Jones transferred to Calipatria State Prison where he served as a correctional supervising cook until his untimely passing.
“He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him,” according to Calipatria. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Viewing begins at 10 a.m. with services beginning at 11 a.m., Sept. 11, at Frye Chapel and Mortuary, 633 N. 7th St., Blythe.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter).
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Obituaries
Jason Sweeten, retired correctional counselor
Jason Sweeten, a retired correctional counselor with 31 years of service to the department, passed away Sept. 21, 2026. Sweeten…
Read MoreJohn Teixeira, retired associate warden
John Teixeira, a retired associate warden from Avenal State Prison, passed away Aug. 26, 2026. He worked for the department…
Read MoreHR mourns loss of Supervisor Matthew Armitage
Headquarters Human Resources (HR) is mourning the loss of Supervisor Matthew “Matt” Armitage, who passed away Sept. 12, 2026. Services…
Read More