If you grew up in Santa Barbara over the past 35 years, you would recognize Blessed as a holy man of sorts. His presence was iconic. He was often seen walking barefoot all over Santa Barbara — from the Riviera and Mesa to downtown — carrying a big leather-bound Bible.
While I didn't know him personally beyond my observations and the accounts from friends, Blessed was undeniably a local legend. His distinctive appearance, with robes, long hair, and a beard, made him a recognizable figure in the community.
Many knew him as a man who loved both Jesus and cannabis. After I posted about him on my Chicano Culture S.B. Instagram to honor his legacy, the post went viral, and people from all over the country shared their memories of him.