The City of Oceanside announced the sad passing of former Mayor James “Jim” Wood on May 16, 2026. Wood served the Oceanside community for more than four decades as a Police Officer, City Councilmember,
and Mayor. He was 78 years old.
“Jim Wood was a dedicated public servant in every sense of the word,” said Mayor Esther C. Sanchez. He left a lasting legacy of prioritizing public safety, fighting crime, and protecting our seniors. Jim had a great way of making everyone feel like an old friend. His quick wit and humor broke down barriers, and people were drawn to him from the moment they met. He was a wonderful person, phenomenal Mayor, and a great friend. We are grateful for every year he has dedicated to this city. He will be deeply missed.”
Wood came to Oceanside as a young boy in 1955 and never left. He joined the Oceanside Police Department in 1971, serving for more than 31 years as an investigator in some of the department’s most demanding assignments, including homicide, narcotics, and crimes against children and seniors, and collaborating with the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service.
Jim Wood was elected to the Oceanside City Council in 2002 and became Mayor in 2004, a position he held for more than 13 years, one of the longest mayoral tenures in the city’s history. Under his leadership, Oceanside’s crime rates fell to their lowest levels in 30 years, and the city earned recognition as one of the safest and most livable beach communities in San Diego County. He was reelected in 2016 with 63 percent of the vote.
Mayor Wood resigned in December 2017 following a medical issue, writing to the City Clerk, “It has been such an honor to serve the city that I have lived in for over 65 years — as a Police Officer, a
Councilmember, and Mayor.”
In recognition of his lifetime of service, the City of Oceanside renamed Rancho Del Oro Park as Jim Wood Community Park in 2022 in a wonderful ceremony attended by Jim, his wife Pam of 48 years, and his entire loving family.
About the City of Oceanside
Incorporated in 1888, the City of Oceanside is a full-service municipal government serving approximately 174,000 residents across 42 square miles in northern San Diego County. The largest city in the North County region, Oceanside is known for its historic landmarks, cultural arts, beaches, dining scene, and vibrant community. Home to Oceanside Harbor and adjacent to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, the city offers residents and visitors a distinctive blend of coastal living, rich history, and community-centered events. For more information, visit oceansideca.org.
