James Woodrow Day Jr., known to most as Jim or Jimmy, passed away on January 8, 2026, leaving behind a melody of love, laughter, and music that will echo far beyond his years. He was born on May 13, 1943, in West Seattle and grew up as the second eldest of seven siblings in Kent, Washington.
A lifelong musician, Jim was a gifted jazz guitarist whose soul seemed permanently tuned to his instrument. He pursued his passion for music through his studies at Seattle Pacific University, the University of Washington, and Olympic College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music. His education laid the foundation for a life devoted to performance, teaching, and sharing music with others.
Jim became a cherished figure in the local music community as the owner of Farmers Music in Burien, Washington, a place where countless musicians found not only instruments but encouragement and friendship. He lived to perform, and on stage with his beloved guitar, he was fully himself. Music was his language, his refuge, and his gift to the world.
In early 2017, Jim’s life changed as Alzheimer’s disease began its slow and unforgiving progression. For a man whose identity was rooted in music, memory, and performance, the disease was especially cruel. It took pieces of him gradually, relentlessly. Yet even as words, moments, and abilities faded, his love, humor, and warmth never did. Even on the darkest days, Jim’s laughter and unmistakable goofy spirit endured, bringing light when it was needed most.
To those who loved him, Jim was far more than a musician. He was a dad, son, husband, uncle, friend, and a steady presence whose affection never wavered. Walking beside him through the long journey of Alzheimer’s was brutal and heartbreaking for his family, yet also filled with profound gratitude. In the end, love remained when nearly everything else was taken.
Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patricia Day; his sons, Kevin Day and his wife Jennifer, and Andrew Day and his wife Lauren; and his grandchildren, Logan Day and Charley Day. His family will carry forward his music, his warmth, and his unforgettable spirit.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish, 7112 S. 12th Street, Tacoma, WA 98465, on Saturday, January 31st, at 11:00 AM.
A remembrance reception will immediately follow the Mass.
I have many great memories of Uncle Jim. He will be missed, but not forgotten.
Jim was my older brother. I loved listening to him playing his music. I especially thought it was so cool when his rock and roll band would practice in the garage… even though I was 7 years younger than he was.
I will miss his musical presence and his sense of humor… good by my brother until we meet again…
I have many great memories of my Uncle Jim. He will be missed, but not forgotten. R.I.P.
Jim and his wonderful wife Patty were my first friends when I first came to Seattle in 1972.
Through many years Jim Light and I had a wonderful loving relationship and and shared wonderful times with him and his wife Patty that will remain wonderful memories in our hearts forever. We also became God Parents to his two sons. A privilege we have had now for over 50 years. We miss his music and we already miss him terribly. Rest in peace Woody Jim.
Pat, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
I only found out this tragic news today, on Jim’s birthday. I worked with Jim for years at Farmers Music. I was able to hear him play many times and learned a lot about music composition. My most beloved musical instrument (keyboard) I purchased while I worked there in the 1990’s and I still have and love it today. Jim loved his archtop Gibson guitars and one of them was given to him by a famous musician whose name was the model of the guitar. Jim made thousands of people happy with his music and personality. Jim’s passing is a terrible loss for our culture. Thanks for everything Jim, and the next time we meet we’ll jam, in the key of “A” of course
Jim gave me too many hours to count, of enjoyable music! When my son was a child, we would wander over to The Bean on S.W. 152nd in Burien, and sit on weekends…listening to his music and just relaxing in the sun. I also went to several venues to hear him play. He was so blessed with talent. My condolences to all of his family…He was a genuine nice guy, the real deal.