James "Jimmy" Elliott McCaffrey

August 16, 1987 – September 22, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Elliott McCaffrey, who tragically lost his life in a car accident on Monday, September 22, 2025. James, lovingly referred to as Jimmy by his family, was a devoted father, son, brother, and friend whose quiet strength, gentle spirit, and unwavering loyalty left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He leaves behind his 7-year-old daughter, Cerinity, parents, siblings, and nieces and nephew, who will carry his memory in their hearts forever.

Born in Los Angeles County, Jimmy was the beloved son of Mike McCaffrey and his birth mother, Lori Weatherwax, and was lovingly raised by his bonus mother, Debra McCaffrey. He was cherished by his siblings, Bruce, April, Travis, Annalee, Jason, Jennifer, Shawn, and a proud uncle to Jaden, Isla, and River; who were central to the love and support that shaped him.

Jimmy graduated from Rancho Verde High School in Moreno Valley in 2005 where he excelled as a star swimmer on the men’s swim team. Though he was reserved and not one to seek the spotlight, he earned the respect and admiration of his teammates through his dedication and reliability.

Dependable and kind, Jimmy was the person friends and family could always count on. He quietly offered support, comfort, and help whenever it was needed, leaving a lasting impression through his loyalty and generosity. He loved his family deeply, and in turn, he was deeply loved.

Jimmy had a deep passion for animals and found true joy and fulfillment working with horses at a ranch in Aguanga, California. He trained, cared for, and bonded with the horses with patience and skill, and his family was always in awe of how naturally talented and at ease he was in this environment. Truly in his element, Jimmy’s connection to animals reflected his compassionate nature.

He found a true sense of peace and belonging in his church, a place where he felt safe, supported, and grounded. It was a space where he could reflect, connect with his faith, and draw strength from the community around him.

In 2017, Jimmy was blessed with the greatest gift of his life, becoming a father. He cherished his role as a dad and approached it with an unwavering love. His daughter, Cerinity, was the center of his world, and everything he did was guided by her happiness, well-being, and joy. From small everyday moments to the milestones of her life, Jimmy took immense pride in nurturing, protecting, and encouraging her. Being a father was his most important role, and it brought him a sense of purpose and fulfillment that defined who he was.

There is so much to share about Jimmy that words can scarcely capture it all. He grew up with a love of drawing, a deep bond with the family dog, Hershey, and a true punker at heart, drawn to punk music and all its energy. He grew up in a family that loved to tease and joke with each other, but always from a place of love. Jimmy’s life was far too short, and his loss leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, yet his family and friends find comfort in the joy, humor, and love he shared, and in the wonderful memories he leaves behind.

The family warmly welcomes anyone who would like to share memories, stories, or reflections of Jimmy. Your thoughts and cherished recollections will be treasured and provide comfort as they remember the joy and love he brought into all of their lives.

A celebration of life for James will be held at the Valley Gospel Church located at 43275 Chapman Rd, Anza, CA 92539. The service will be on Sunday, October 19th starting at 1:00 to 4:00 PM, light refreshments will be served.