James J. Shanley, 61, of Morro Bay, California, died tragically in a swimming accident while on vacation in Costa Rica on February 15, 2023. He was born on July 23, 1961 in Streator, Illinois, the son of John F. (Jack) Shanley and Patricia (Brennan) Shanley.
After graduating from the University of Illinois, he started his very successful business career at the Chicago Board of Trade, then moved on to California based JD Heiskell and Co., one of the nation’s largest trading and livestock feed providers. In the late nineties, Jim embarked on a second career. After leaving JD Heiskell, he purchased agricultural land in Visalia, CA, and Morro Bay, CA, and started what was to become Shanley Farms. Jim began growing citrus fruit and avocados. His passion for layered agriculture resulted in later adding exotic fruit to the mix.
Largest grower of finger limes
Not only did he become the largest producer of finger limes in North America, he also developed and trademarked the Morro Bay brand of avocados. Morro Bay and the Central Coast is the last growing area in California to harvest and produce an avocado with a rich, smooth unique eating experience.
Jim was also a gourmet cook. His goal was to educate consumers on flavors and health benefits of the unique crops growing on Shanley Ranches. An avid traveler to other countries, Jim used those experiences to add to his repertoire of dishes combining the farm’s unique products.
Continue legacy
Jim’s daughter and business partner, Megan Shanley Warren along with her husband Justin Warren, plan to continue and expand Jim’s legacy at Shanley Farms, preparing for the next generation to continue Jim’s vision of flavorful, unique consumer eating experiences through Shanley Farms products.
Jim was predeceased by his wife Mendy, who passed from early onset Alzheimer. He is survived by his two daughters Megan (Justin) Warren and Rachelle (Tommy) Witt, along with grandchildren, James, Jack, Sterling, Theo, Annabeth, Melinda, and Johnny.
Jim was a kind, generous, compassionate, and loving soul and he will be deeply missed by all. A celebration of life will be held on March 11 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Dairy Creek Golf Course in San Luis Obispo, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James W. Barbeck Youth Legacy Fund. This fund serves Agriculture-related and at-risk youth in Jim's community.
For more information:
Patrinka Porter Crammond
Shanley Farms
Tel: (+1) 928.777.8384
[email protected]
www.shanleyfarms.com