Birth date: May 4, 1938 Death date: Jan 19, 2026
James “Jim” Brigham of Gardnerville, Nevada went to be with Jesus on Monday, January 19, 2026. He was surrounded by his loving wife and family at Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center. He was born May 4, 1938 in New Mexico. He has Read Obituary
I was not planning to add a tribute because I have struggled to find the words, but I keep finding myself coming back to this page to look at all the wonderful pictures and memories so I decided that I decided to write one as well.
Even though we lived many miles apart, I have so many wonderful memories of my Grandpa Brigham. Some of my favorites are from our road trip in 2010, when Grandpa proudly showed us around Lake Tahoe and Virginia City. I smile thinking about him trying to teach me how to play pool; he was so patient, encouraging, and quietly amused because I was terrible it. Those days were filled with laughter and togetherness, and they remain some of the most special memories.
When I was a kid, I loved the times Grandpa and Grandma would come visit Nanny and Pa in Dover. I remember always sitting on his lap after dinner and going on walks with Grandma—simple moments that now are precious memories.
One of the things I admired most about my Grandpa Brigham was his strength and his resilience. He lived with a disability that could have made life harder, but he never complained. He never let it define him or stop him from living fully. He showed us what quiet courage looks like. He showed us what it means to persevere with grace. Even in his last days, I hear his voice saying "I'm okay" over and over in my head. That was a reflection of his character and his deep trust in God.
I am so deeply thankful that God worked it out for his Arkansas family to be with Grandpa in his final days here on earth. That time was incredibly special to me. We shared wonderful conversations, including talking about heaven—conversations that now bring me so much peace. Knowing his faith was strong and that he was ready to go home to the Lord gives me comfort beyond words.
Another attribute I greatly admire about my Grandpa is how he loved my Grandma. It was evident he loved her so deeply, as she did him. The pictures and memories of them together are priceless.
Grandpa’s life was a testimony of quiet strength, enduring love, and faithful trust in God. His legacy lives on in all of us, in the memories he gave us, the example he set, and the love he showed his family.
Though my heart aches wishing we were closer and could be all together; especially to be with Grandma Josie, Tina, and Marcie, I hold onto the hope and promise of our faith. Grandpa is whole, restored, and rejoicing in heaven, and one day we will all be together again and that gives me so much peace.
Through all the sadness of losing one of the most important people that will ever exist in my life, my heart is full of thankfulness.
Dad, when I think of you, I will remember the strength you showed us all, your dedication and commitment to your family—your daughters and your grandchildren near and far—and your unwavering love for my Mom.
I will always remember singing country music songs with you, especially “Jamestown Ferry” and “Why Me,” and you and Mom singing “Louisiana Woman / Mississippi Man.” It was like it was written just for the two of you.
Through all the years, the ups and downs, you were always there for me—helping me grow, helping me get on my feet, and sharing the most important milestone in my life. I learned so many valuable life lessons from you that will be with me forever on the rest of my journey.
You taught me honesty, a great work ethic, to work hard for what you want, and that respect and trust are earned. I think of the times we sat on the porch staring out into the distance, talking about right and wrong, our philosophies, and what is truth.
You were wise, and I was blessed beyond measure to have had you as my father. Your guidance and love gave my life goodness. I look back at all our memories and the experiences you gave me in this life, and I thank you, because I honestly couldn’t have done this life without you. For the countless hours you spent trying to talk some sense into this young, stubborn, unknowing girl, my heart overflows with gratitude.
I love you and will miss you until we meet again up in the clouds.
Rest in peace, you beautiful man—or, as Dad would say, rest in peace, “partner.”
All of the loving comments, candles and pictures are a comfort and a blessing. Thank you all for honoring the love of my life.
God looked around His garden
And found an empty place.
He then looked down upon the earth
And saw your tired face.
He put His arms around you
and lifted you to rest.
Gods garden must be beautiful
He only takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering
he knew you were in pain
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb.
So, He closed your weary eyelids
And whispered “Please be thine.
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn’t go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
The first time I met Uncle Jim, I could see his noble and loving character shining through. He cared for and took care of Aunt Josie the way a man is supposed to love, protect, and honor his wife. He accepted the life God gave him, always with a positive and happy demeanor - I never remember him complaining about anything.
We seemed to always congregate at their home for family gatherings, and like others I recall hanging out in the family room eagerly awaiting a chance to play pool. He was always so humble and patient showing us how to determine the angles, apply spin, etc. His shot would always hit the ball he was aiming for and it would go into the pocket he predicted. With us, well, not so much.
Uncle Jim had a generous servant’s heart. He waited on others, and would typically not be in the limelight, at least when I was around him. He could carry on a conversation with anybody about any subject, and bring out the personality of the most introverted person. He would always put others first, and genuinely care for any need or want they had. I do not have a lot of pictures of Uncle Jim but am sharing a few.
A funny memory: anyone else remember how much he loved potatoes? I remember Aunt Josie telling us she would go through at least ten pounds of potatoes a week.
I thank you, Uncle Jim, for being the godly example to whom I looked up. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
