Escondido lost a longtime resident and Vietnam War veteran on June 28, when James Donald Pio died at the age of 80 after a lengthy illness. Born June 22, 1946, in San Jose, Pio lived his later years in Escondido, where family and neighbors knew him as a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
What this means for local residents
For many in Escondido, Pio's passing will be a moment to pause and remember a neighbor who served his country and was active in family and community life. Funeral arrangements are being handled locally by Alhiser-Comer Mortuary in Escondido, which can provide information to those wishing to send condolences or inquire about services.
Family and military service
Pio is survived by his wife, Patricia Pio; two children, Brian Pio (Resi) and Julie Petty; and stepchildren Shannon Morgan and Keith Gibbs. He also leaves eleven grandchildren: Aaron, DB, Julia, Delaney, Jake, Bella, Mason, Madeline, Michaela, Romi and Drake. He was a brother to Gerald Pio (Trish).
- Age: 80
- Birth: June 22, 1946, San Jose, California
- Death: June 28, 2026, Escondido, California
- Local arrangements: Alhiser-Comer Mortuary, Escondido
"He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by those privileged to know him."
Community context
Obituaries like Pio's highlight the local ties that shape Escondido neighborhoods: military service, multi-generational families and local funeral homes coordinating final arrangements. Residents who remember Pio — as a veteran, neighbor or family friend — may wish to reach out to the mortuary for details on memorials or to share condolences with his family.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | James Donald Pio |
| Born | June 22, 1946 (San Jose, CA) |
| Died | June 28, 2026 (Escondido, CA) |
| Arrangements | Alhiser-Comer Mortuary, Escondido |
Those wishing to leave remembrances or learn more about any planned services should contact Alhiser-Comer Mortuary in Escondido. No public events were reported at the time of this notice.
