Joseph L. Liggett, 87, of Grass Valley

Joseph L. Liggett, 87, of Grass Valley

Joseph L. Liggett, a man of integrity, boundless energy, and rare skill in conceiving, designing, and building just about anything he set his mind to, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, in his Grass Valley home, surrounded by his three daughters and two of his closest friends. He was born in San Francisco on August 10, 1938, and lived 87 years of meaningful contribution to family, friends, and community.

Joe was the firstborn child of Joseph L. Liggett Sr. and Helen E. MacKillop. Following his father's sudden passing when Joe was just 14, he moved to Adlers Ranch north of Cloverdale, where he was raised by his maternal grandfather, Alexander MacKillop. Despite his grandfather's stern discipline, Joe's years on the ranch were filled with adventure—riding horses, caring for animals, and learning the value of hard work and persistence.

Upon graduating from Cloverdale High School in 1956, Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably for three years with additional reserve commitment. He carried Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment throughout his life, viewing his military service as one of his greatest sources of pride.

After his discharge, Joe married his first wife, Vicki J. Masengale, and together they had two daughters, Lori Diane (1962) and Kelly Michele (1964). He worked alongside his father-in-law in the family business in Wasco, becoming a master diesel and gas mechanic, excelling in bodywork, restoration, and automotive painting. Joe restored several vintage automobiles to better-than-factory-original condition, never compromising on craftsmanship.

In 1965, Joe began his career with PG&E as a groundman and worked his way to lineman, serving with distinction for 35 years before his 2000 retirement. His work ethic was unmatched, and he took great pride in both his position and the union family he served.

In 1972, Joe married Pricilla Jean Wood, uniting their families with Jean's two children, Kevin and Keri. Over 47 years of marriage, they shared a love of gardening, landscaping, and adventure. Joe designed and built all hardscape elements of their Japanese-inspired garden in Grass Valley, where they moved in 1978. In retirement, Joe and Jean enjoyed numerous RV trips to Fort Bragg and Morro Bay, always with one of their beloved Yorkshire Terriers by their side.

Joe is survived by his daughters, Lori Liggett (Doug) of Midvale, Idaho; Kelly Christenson (Geno) of Butte, Montana; and Keri Callahan of Grass Valley, California; as well as his grandchildren, Lori's daughter Mason Hooper of Portland, Oregon, and Keri's son Joseph Warrillow of Grass Valley. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, his sisters Claudia Lee Guluarte (2009) and Aimee Johnson-Reading (2015), his wife Pricilla Jean Liggett (2019), and Kevin Callahan (2024).

Joe will be forever remembered for the twinkle in his bright blue eyes and the quiet chuckle that followed when someone managed to draw out one of his genuine laughs. In accordance with his wishes, Joe was cremated. A graveside burial and service was held at a later date.

Published by The Union on January 31, 2026.