James (Jim) Christopher Lawrence of Chico died peacefully at home on June 18, 2025.
He was born November 10, 1951 in Lancaster, California, the third child of John and Billie Ann Lawrence’s eight children. He spent his childhood in Lancaster as part of this large and loving family and enjoyed many camping trips to the High Sierras. His love of nature and wild places began as a boy and continued throughout his life. Jim enjoyed hiking, backpacking, fly fishing and kayaking.
During the Vietnam War, Jim made the courageous decision to become a conscientious objector. He completed his alternative service at a Montessori School where the young students lovingly called him “Mr. Jim.”
Jim became a licensed contractor, and he went on to open a successful fencing business in Paradise, California. Later, he returned to school and earned his degree and two teaching credentials from Cal State Chico. He taught for many years at Youth For Change, where he made strong connections with both students and staff.
In 1985, Jim married Jean Haberlin. Though they never had children, Jim’s and Jean’s mutual love of dogs led them to rescue many dogs and provide them with love and care in their home. Jim and Jean later divorced, but they continued to be close friends until Jean’s death in 2022.
Jim was a creative soul who loved art. He experimented with many media, including woodworking and carving, but his real passion was painting. He was active in the art community in Paradise and Chico. After his cancer diagnosis, Jim was honored to be asked to share his work in “The Healing Art Gallery” at the Enloe Cancer Center. Even as he struggled with MS and cancer, Jim once mentioned that he was happiest when he was painting. He continued to create and paint until shortly before his death.
Jim was also a voracious and reflective reader. After reading Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad, Jim wrote: I’m not sure I would give up what I’ve learned to have never been sick. This life sure can be confusing; it can be so messy. Gifts and challenges coming at us all the time. Mixed together. I’m glad I learned important lessons before I came to the end of this life, and I might not have become so appreciative if I had not gotten sick.
Jim wanted to be remembered as a “hard worker,” but he will be remembered for so much more. Jim was a natural teacher, a loving brother and uncle, a man devoted to his family, and he was beloved by many fortunate to call him “friend.”