James (Jim) A. Avila

06.05.26

James “Jim” A. Avila
July 12, 1944 – June 5, 2026
James “Jim” A. Avila, age 81, passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Jim was born on July 12, 1944, in Aguilar, Colorado, to Joe and Ida Avila. He graduated from Aguilar High School and proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country honorably for four years, including service during the Vietnam War.
After returning home, Jim worked a variety of jobs before beginning a long career with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, where he dedicated more than 30 years of service. He and his family were also proud owners and operators of the Sunset Tavern in Aguilar for over a decade, building lasting friendships and memories within the community.
For 52 years, Jim shared a loving marriage with the love of his life, Linda “Lindy” Rose Avila. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family values. They raised three sons: Jimmy Quintero, Daniel L. Avila, and Joseph A. Avila.
In his later years, Jim enjoyed spending time on the golf course, woodworking, fishing, and trying his luck at the casinos in Cripple Creek and beyond. One of his favorite pastimes was playing dominoes every Tuesday and Thursday at the Gulnare Inn with the special women in his life. Those afternoons were filled with laughter, friendship, good-natured competition, and countless cherished memories. Above all else, Jim treasured the time he spent with family and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Ida Avila, and his brothers, Felix Avila, Felix Paiz, Charlie Avila, Raymond Avila, and Jerry Avila.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Lindy Avila; his sons, Jimmy Quintero, Daniel Avila, and Joseph Avila; his grandchildren, Shayla, Daniel, Hailey, Kaylee, and Khloee; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Jim’s legacy is one of hard work, dedication, service, friendship, and unwavering love for his family. While he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he leaves behind.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”
Funeral Services
Funeral services honoring Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Aguilar, Colorado. Interment will immediately follow at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery.
Family and friends are then invited to attend a Celebration of Life Reception at 1:30 p.m. at the Sunset Tavern in Aguilar. The reception will be potluck style, and guests are welcome to bring a favorite dish to share as family and friends gather to celebrate Jim’s life, memories, and lasting legacy.