James “Jim” Levi Givens, Sr., 91, of Oregon House, CA, passed away on January 1, 2026.
He was born on September 1, 1934, in N. Miami, OK, to Clinton and Beulah Givens.
Jim’s family soon relocated to Oregon House, CA, where his parents became beloved figures in the community while owning and operating The Oregon House Store for many years.
Jim attended Marysville High School and soon enlisted in the military where he proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Seabee during the Korean War.
In 1956, Jim married the love of his life, Hortense Vega. Together, they raised four children, Timmie, Jim, Clint, and Tammy, in Oregon House, CA, the place where Jim called home for most of his life.
Jim dedicated more than 35 years to Yuba County, managing the Building and Grounds Department.
Beyond his county service, he worked as a skilled general contractor in the community.
One of his proudest achievements was overseeing the construction of a 45,000 square foot recycling facility at Yuba Sutter Disposal, Inc., now Recology. Jim was well known for his kindness and his generosity.
Jim and Hortense cherished time with family and friends. They enjoyed adventurous Jeep trips to places like Moab, UT, and the Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Their welcoming home “up the hill” was a treasured gathering spot for the holidays, celebrations, exploring the outdoors, swimming and fishing, creating countless unforgettable memories for their grandchildren.
Jim is survived by his sister, Shirley Scheel; daughter, Timmie Handy; sons, Jim (Debra) Givens, and Clint (Jennifer) Givens; grandchildren, Tara (Bryan) Collins, Maura and Summer Givens, Colby (Nikki) Givens, Millie (Justin) Glen, and Mollie Givens, Damon (Taylor) Bugarin, Bryon Bugarin, Jack (Deja) Bugarin, and Samantha Bugarin; and great-grandchildren, Henry, Samuel, Wesley, and Grace Givens, Liam Baker, Kirby Glen, Finn Collins, and Delilah Bugarin.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Hortense; daughter, Tammy Bugarin; brother, Jack Givens; and sister, Betty Jo Smith.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Calvary Chapel of the Foothills 6349 Marysville Rd., Browns Valley, CA 95918 on January 17, 2026, at 11 AM, with a reception to follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Appeal Democrat from Jan. 10 to Jan. 13, 2026.
If you would like to share an obituary of a loved one to be listed here, please contact the Navy Seabee Foundation at info@seabee.org.