James Ray Maitland

James Ray Maitland

October 4, 1950 – July 5, 2026

Born in Los Angeles, California, Jim spent his formative years growing up in Buena Park. He was raised in a modest home by his mother (Jetta), stepfather (Dulcie), and alongside his brother, Steve. Jim was a part of the 1969 graduating class of Savannah High School. He spent his youth channeling his passion for comradery, music and precision into the Kingsmen Drum & Bugle Corp, creating deep bonds and memories that lasted a lifetime.

Driven by a determined mind with lots of encouragement and a desire to build a better life, he earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Cal Poly Pomona. This launched a distinguished 30+year career as a Professional Civil Engineer. He specialized in developing school campuses, residential housing and military base housing throughout the state of California, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service to his community.

At eighteen Jim met the love of his life and future wife, Pat. Together, they shared a beautiful vision for their future. They married at St. Pius Church on August 25, 1973, and experienced nearly 53 years of marriage together. He was a committed father to his son and daughter, and a proud grandfather to his three grandchildren. Some of his most cherished memories were talking and watching all things Dodgers, a passion which helped him feel especially connected to his son and grandson. His family was his greatest joy, and he rarely missed an opportunity to sit in the stands, cheering at his children's and grandchildren’s sporting events over the years.

Jim was a man of immense perseverance, patience and strength. Diagnosed with congestive heart failure as a younger adult, Jim survived numerous health challenges. His profound resilience was tested and proven when he became a grateful heart transplant recipient on December 26, 2013. Jim was known for his optimistic attitude towards his health and abilities, completing a half marathon with his daughter to raise funds for the American Stroke Association years before succumbing to his own health battles.

Jim possessed a deep curiosity about the world, which he explored through traveling and watching historical documentaries. He was also an avid fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, always rooting for his home team.

A man of profound faith, Jim converted to Catholicism before marrying Pat which centered his life on spiritual guidance. He found great peace and community in attending functions with various church groups throughout the years. These experiences anchored his relationship with God and guided his kindness toward others.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; his two children Russell (& Jennifer) and Suzanne (& Todd); as well as his three grandchildren (Sean, Emily and Jake) whose lives were enriched by his love.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Cedars-Sinai Heart Transplant Program by going online to the Cedars-Sinai Tributes & Memorials page or by calling 323-866-7763.

*Please specify the gift is in memory of James Maitland and designated for the Heart Transplant Program.