James ( Jim) Suggs, 84, passed away Aug. 13, 2025 at his home in Mariposa after a brief illness.
Born in Paris, Texas, to Helen and James Suggs, he grew up in Desoto, Texas, the eldest sibling along with three brothers and a sister.
In 1960, Jim moved to California, where he made his career in the automotive body repair industry and he met the love of his life, Beverly. They were married in 1963 and raised their family in San Jose, Calif., where they resided for 40 years.
Jim enjoyed volunteering and was a 4-H leader and Indian Guides Leader when his children were young.
While in San Jose, Jim, co-founded B-Line Body Shop in 1972, which grew into a well known shop in the Bay Area specializing in BMW repairs.
Jim was known for his love of cars and was an avid car collector and builder. He was always willing to share his knowledge and skills in restoration and customization of collectible cars. Jim served as president of the Early Wheels car club and could be seen at car shows with his 1936 Ford Coupe.
Jim loved socializing with friends, dancing and traveling domestically and abroad by automobile, plane and cruise ships.
In 1999, along with his children, Jim helped to create Silver Valley Ranch in Mariposa. After moving to Mariposa in 2003, Jim became involved in S.C.O.P.E. and Search and Rescue.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Charles Suggs and David Suggs.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Beverly; son, Bill Suggs and wife, Carol; daughter, Kathy Verdugo and husband Andy; grandchildren AJ Verdugo and wife Lexie and Savanah Verdugo; great-granddaughters, Teagan, Emersyn and Peyton Verdugo; brothers, Donald Suggs, James “Bubba” Suggs and sisters, Barbara Henexson and Tammie Trimble; Aunt Emma Shea and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 at 11 a.m. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Mariposa, followed by a reception for friends and family at Building B at the Mariposa Fairgrounds.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to: Manna House P.O. Box 1484, Mariposa, CA 95338 or St. Joseph’s Church, P.O. Box 215, Mariposa, CA 95338 (make sure you write in the memo section of your check “Maintenance Fund.”)
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