James Anibal Molina

December 5, 1925 – July 26, 2026

James Anibal Molina, lovingly known to everyone simply as "Opa," passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, at the age of 100, in San Clemente, California.

Born on December 5, 1925, in New York, New York, James was the beloved son of Antonio Molina and Laura Molina, proud Puerto Rican parents who instilled in him the values of faith, hard work, humility, and respect for others. In 1941, James and his family moved to Norco, California, where he began the next chapter of his life.

On November 3, 1943, at just 17 years old, James proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. He honorably served as a Seaman First Class from November 1943 through April 3, 1946, during World War II. Stationed at Pearl Harbor on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, he served at the Advance Base Reshipment Depot, where he trained and worked as an electrician, supporting the Navy's mission during the war. He was honorably discharged on April 3, 1946.

While stationed in Hawaii, James developed a lifelong love for the Hawaiian Islands, their beauty, and their spirit. He especially enjoyed playing the ukulele, and Hawaii always held a special place in his heart. He also enjoyed fishing at Big Bear Lake from time to time, appreciating the simple peace it brought.

On February 6, 1966, James married the love of his life, Dolores Mary Molina, affectionately known by her family as "Grammie." From the day they married, they were rarely apart. Opa and Grammie were inseparable and shared a deep, unconditional love that was evident to everyone who knew them. Their home was filled with laughter, devotion, and unwavering support for one another. Together they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage until Grammie's passing on June 4, 2024. Their love was a beautiful example of lifelong commitment, and their family finds comfort in knowing they are together once again.

James was the proud father of one son, grandfather of six grandchildren, great-grandfather of nine great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandfather of one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Grammie (Dolores), and his two brothers.

For the last eight years of his life, James made his home in San Juan Capistrano, California, where he lived with his former daughter-in-law, Liesel Hazen. Her kindness, generosity, and compassionate care provided him with comfort, companionship, and a loving home during his later years.

Throughout those years, James was surrounded by the love and devotion of his granddaughter, Charlene, and her children. They shared countless visits, holidays, conversations, laughter, and precious moments together, creating memories that will be cherished forever. To Charlene, Opa was much more than a grandfather—he was a father figure whose guidance, quiet strength, and unconditional love helped shape the person she is today.

To family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him, he was simply "Opa." More than a nickname, it was who he was. Opa was known for his kind heart, respectful nature, and genuine spirit. He treated everyone with compassion and dignity, never asking for recognition or praise. His quiet strength, gentle smile, and unwavering kindness touched countless lives, and his memory will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him.

Opa lived a remarkable life, not because of the years he was given, but because of the love, kindness and respect he showed others throughout his years. His memory will forever be a blessing to everyone who knew and loved him. While he will be deeply missed, the love he shared, the example he set, and the memories he created will live on for generations. We find comfort in knowing that Opa and Grammie are together again—inseparable in life and now reunited for eternity.

Fair winds and following seas, Seaman First Class James Anibal Molina. Your watch is complete.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

— Matthew 25:23

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A Personal Tribute from His Granddaughter, Charlene

My Dearest Opa,

You were never just my grandfather—you were my father figure, my protector, my teacher, and one of the greatest blessings in my life.

Knowing that you proudly passed out cigars on the day I was born has always reminded me just how loved I was from the very beginning. You believed in me before I could even take my first steps, and throughout my life you continued to love, guide, and encourage me with your quiet strength and gentle heart.

Thank you for every hug, every story, every smile, and every lesson. Thank you for loving my children and for giving them memories they will carry with them forever. The time we spent together as a family is something I will always treasure.

You and Grammie showed all of us what true love looks like. The two of you were inseparable, and your love for one another was beautiful to witness. Although saying goodbye is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, I find peace knowing you are back in Grammie's arms.

Thank you for being my father figure, my hero, and my Opa. I will miss you more than words can ever express, but your love and your example will stay with me every day of my life. One thing I will always treasure is hearing you say " I love you a whole bunch".

Today, I say them back to you with all my heart..... I Love you a whole bunch, Opa.

Until we meet again...

Love Always,

Charlene