Brian David Tamblin

Born on March 2, 1948, in Looe, Cornwall, England, to Raymond and Joan Tamblin (née Hingston), Brian immigrated to the United States in the late 1970s and proudly became a U.S. citizen in 1996.

Though he is no longer with us, Brian’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved him—through the memories he created, the values he instilled, and the quiet strength he shared with everyone around him. He was deeply cherished by his family and friends.

Brian served over 13 years in the British Royal Navy, where he first trained at HMS Ganges and later worked as a British Royal Navy store’s accountant. His service took him around the world and provided him the opportunity to see many countries. It was during a brief three-day posting in Washington, D.C. that he met his future wife, Denise Spencer. After a whirlwind long-distance romance of less than three months, they married in the United Kingdom and made their first home together in Plymouth, England. They began their family in the UK before later settling in the United States. They first lived in Hopedale, Massachusetts before moving to California in 1990.

Brian had a lifelong love of music. As a young teen, he sang folk songs in local singing competitions and at festivals (even winning a few certificates). As an adult, he always seemed to know the latest Top 40 hits. Music was a constant in his life, and in a delightful discovery made only recently, his family learned that he also served as the DJ aboard his Navy ship—bringing music and joy to his fellow sailors. It was a role he assumed they knew about so he never spoke much about it, but one that perfectly reflected his quiet charm and ability to lift the spirits of those around him.

In his U.S. civilian career, Brian worked at A-Copy, Unisource, and later with the County of Fresno. He was known for his reliability, kindness, and strong work ethic.

In his spare time, Brian enjoyed metal detecting and was an avid coin collector. He loved gardening and reading or watching programs about history and archaeology. After an American co-worker explained the game of football to Brian, he became a devoted fan of the New England Patriots.

His family and friends will fondly remember his favorite saying, "It is what it is." To Brian, it was more than just a phrase—it was a reflection of his calm, grounded approach to life. Whether facing challenges or celebrating joys, he embraced each moment with acceptance and grace. That simple saying became a comforting reminder to those around him to take life as it comes, and it will continue to echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

He is survived by his daughter, Tracy J. Basa, and her husband, Rudy Q. Basa; his grandson, Kane Marcellus T. Basa; his son, David B. Tamblin, and his wife, Carol L. Tamblin; his grandson, Dalton G. Tamblin; his daughter, Sara R. Tamblin; his brother, John Tamblin; and his sister, Margaret Holwell.

Brian was predeceased by his beloved wife, Denise R. Tamblin.

Brian’s legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.