Joseph L. Liggett

Joseph L. Liggett, a man of integrity, boundless energy, and remarkable ability to conceive, design, and build 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 87.

Born August 10, 1938, in San Francisco, Joseph (known as Joey in his youth) was the firstborn child of Joseph L. Liggett Sr. and Helen E. MacKillop. After his father's sudden passing when Joey was 14, he moved to Adlers Ranch north of Cloverdale, California, where he was raised by his maternal grandfather, Alexander MacKillop. There he developed a love of outdoor work, riding horses, and caring for animals, particularly the sheep he sheared on the ranch.

Upon graduating from Cloverdale High School in 1956, Joseph enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably for three years and fulfilling his remaining commitment in the reserves. He carried the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment throughout his life.

Joseph worked alongside his father-in-law, Jack Masengale, at the family business in Wasco, where he became a master diesel and gas mechanic, excelling in bodywork, restoration, and automotive painting. He later joined PG&E as a groundman in 1965, quickly advancing to lineman and eventually troubleman, retiring in 2000 after 35 years of dedicated service.

In 1978, Joseph and his wife Jean moved to Grass Valley, where they lived for the rest of their lives. Together they shared a love of gardening and landscaping, transforming their property into a beautiful Japanese-inspired garden. In retirement, they enjoyed numerous RV trips to Fort Bragg and Morro Bay. To celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary, they took an Alaskan cruise with their daughter Kelly and her husband, Geno.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents Joseph L. Liggett Sr. (1952) and Helen MacKillop Johnson (1980); his grandparents Alexander and Aimee MacKillop; his sisters Claudia Lee Guluarte (2009) and Aimee Johnson-Reading (2015); his wife, Pricilla Jean Liggett (2019); and Kevin Callahan (2024).

He is survived by his daughters Lori Liggett (Doug) of Midvale, Idaho; Kelly Christenson (Geno) of Butte, Montana; and Keri Callahan of Grass Valley, California; grandchildren Mason Hooper of Portland, Oregon, and Joseph Warrillow of Grass Valley, California.

Joseph 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, Joseph was cremated. A graveside burial and service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hooper & Weaver Mortuary.