James Elbert Fain, affectionately known as “Jimy” to friends and “Lucky” during his service in Vietnam, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, at Banner Baywood Hospital. He was 77 years old.
Jimy was born in Dayton, Ohio, on August 1, 1947, and spent his early childhood in the Cumberland Gap, Kentucky, with his beloved Grandma Lula. This humble beginning shaped his enduring character and deep appreciation for family.
He was the son of Bonnie Estes and stepfather Jim Estes. Jimy grew up with two siblings, his half-sister Karen Estes and half-brother Pete, and shared unique bonds with each of them.
A Distinguished Career and Legacy of Service
Jimy proudly served as a U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper, landing in Vietnam in January 1965. Over the course of his service, he demonstrated extraordinary courage and earned numerous accolades, including four Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars (with combat V), one Silver Star, a Presidential Unit Citation, and a nomination for the Navy Cross. He left Vietnam in June 1966 and was honorably discharged in 1967.
Following his military service, Jimy worked for the U.S. Department of Justice from 1969 to 1987. He became renowned for his undercover work, particularly in rooting out corruption in police departments across cities like Gresham, Oregon; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Tracy, California. His career also included consulting in geopolitical affairs and contracting with the CIA.
Jimy later explored other passions, including working as a Hollywood stuntman, training mountain bikers, and serving as a taxi driver in Reno, Nevada.
A Life of Passion and Adventure
Jimy’s passions were as diverse as his life experiences. He loved reading, writing, and backgammon; spending time in nature through mountain biking, hiking, and camping; and perfecting his skills in martial arts, including Muay Thai and Judo. He had a deep appreciation for golf, shooting sports, and movies, and he cherished his study of scriptures and the life of Christ.
He also dedicated himself to helping others, particularly veterans. Jimy gave lectures to law enforcement on how to better interact with veterans, assisted veterans in transitioning to civilian life, and spoke passionately about the challenges Vietnam veterans faced. Additionally, he started a program to introduce children to mountain biking, demonstrating his commitment to empowering younger generations.
A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Jimy found joy in his faith and service to others.
Family and Legacy
Jimy was married two times, first to Delores in 1969, and had a son named Sean Fain, and later married Carol Johnson in 1997 and took on the role of father helping raise Rhett, Hal, and Chase. His grandchildren included—Connor, Liam, Taelyn, Ellie, Brynan (“Smiley”), Ryker, Liberty, Lincoln, and Laney.
Remembering Jimy
Jimy was a colorful, loyal, and hardworking man who deeply loved children and animals. He valued patience, honesty, and learning, and he taught his family the importance of being a person of your word and always rooting for the underdog. He often said, “Can’t means I don’t want to,” instilling a mindset of determination and perseverance in those around him.
He inspired others to see their potential and was a protector and intuitive guide to his close circle of friends. To know him was to understand his complexity, and to misunderstand him was to miss out on the depth of his character.
Funeral Arrangements
Details regarding the celebration of Jimy’s life will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to organizations that support veterans and their families.
Jimy Elbert Fain was truly a “force to be reckoned with” and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched
Condolences