It is with a heavy heart that we announce the unexpected passing of James Vagts.  He passed away on September 24, 2026 at Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, CA.

James was preceded in death by his mom, Lois Mansker; his oldest brother, Robert Hensley; his youngest brother, Daniel Garrett; and his stepdad.

James was born on August 15, 1985 to Jimmy and Lois in Indio, CA.  James and Sondra met in July 2009 and the two were married in 2018.  Together they raised a beautiful family.  James loved the outdoors, whether it was camping, fishing, off-roading, the river or metal detecting.  He also loved lobster fishing with his brother Mike.  He loved taking his kids on adventures in the desert.  He liked to show off his shooting skills to his friends and exploring all the caves.

At the time of his passing, James was working as Campus Security for Palo Verde Unified School District.

James is survived by his wife, Sondra, and their four children Cara Lynn Vagts, James Vagts, Brooke Halladay and Alyssa Vagts.  Also a brother from another mother, Mike (Rosy) Alafa, and their two children Michael and Lily (god-daughter).  He is also survived by his in-laws, many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and many close friends who he always called family.

Services will be held at Frye Chapel & Mortuary on Friday, October 9th with visitation beginning at 5:00 p.m. and funeral service starting at 6:00 p.m.