Jay and Kristen Ruskey, Death, Obituary, California

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Jay and Kristen Ruskey, celebrated for their pioneering work in California coffee farming, died in a tragic accident on Sunday, leaving behind three teenage children.

The Ruskeys, who founded Frinj Coffee and ran Good Land Organics in western Goleta, were influential in promoting regenerative agriculture and cultivating rare crops like caviar limes and dragon fruit. They were instrumental in the establishment of over 70 coffee farms in Southern California and recently garnered international attention when their beans were sold for $356 per kilogram at the Dubai Coffee Auction to Japan’s Phylocoffee. Frinj Coffee had shown impressive growth in 2026 after overcoming financial challenges.

Known for their philanthropic efforts, the Ruskeys supported local schools, charities, and families in need. Their unexpected deaths have deeply impacted the agricultural community in Santa Barbara County.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help support their three children, with donations being used for their immediate needs and future.