Stan Cadwallader: The Life, Love, and Legacy of Jim Nabors’ Husband

Stan Cadwallader, a name that might not be as widely recognized as some, became an iconic figure due to his relationship with the late actor and singer Jim Nabors. Their long relationship, which culminated in marriage in 2013, became a significant moment in the history of the LGBTQ+ community, especially as it was one of the first high-profile gay marriages after the legalization of same-sex marriage in Washington. In this blog post, we will explore Stan Cadwallader’s life, his career, his relationship with Jim Nabors, and the quiet life he has led since the passing of his husband.

Early Life and Career

Stan Cadwallader was born on January 28, 1948, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Growing up in the tropical paradise of Hawaii, Cadwallader chose a path that was far from the spotlight for much of his life. After completing his high school education, he followed in the footsteps of his father, who was a firefighter, and began his own career in the Honolulu Fire Department at the age of 20. Cadwallader dedicated himself to this noble profession for many years, gaining the respect of his colleagues and the community for his bravery and hard work.

During his time as a firefighter, Stan made a simple life for himself. He lived on a boat while working in the fire department, a humble choice that reflected his unassuming nature. While he was committed to his work, Stan’s life would soon take an unexpected turn when he met the man who would change everything for him – Jim Nabors.

Meeting Jim Nabors

The fateful meeting between Stan Cadwallader and Jim Nabors occurred in July 1975. Jim Nabors, already a well-known actor, was on vacation in Hawaii to celebrate his 45th birthday. On that day, he met Stan at the Ala Moana shopping center. Stan, intrigued by Jim’s celebrity status, approached him, and the two immediately hit it off. They spent the evening together, dining and discovering that they shared many common interests. This first meeting set the foundation for a lifelong relationship that would go on to span several decades.

In the early days, Jim and Stan kept their relationship private. During a time when being openly gay was met with significant social and cultural challenges, they chose not to publicly disclose their connection. Jim, who was already famous for his role as Gomer Pyle in The Andy Griffith Show and his singing career, had his own reasons for keeping his personal life out of the public eye.

As Jim and Stan grew closer, Jim purchased a macadamia plantation on Maui, a property that he would own for 25 years before selling it to the National Tropical Botanical Garden. The couple, although business partners, remained discreet about their romantic relationship.

Public Life and Marriage

Despite their private nature, Jim and Stan made their first public appearance together in 1978. At the time, Jim was singing “Back Home Again in Indiana” at the start of the Indy 500, marking a moment when they could no longer remain entirely out of the public’s view. Their connection had become well-known within their circle, but it wasn’t until many years later that they officially came out as a couple.

The two men remained together for almost 40 years before their relationship was formalized through marriage. In 2013, when Washington state legalized same-sex marriage, Jim and Stan decided to marry. On January 13, 2013, at the Fairmount Olympic Hotel in Seattle, the couple tied the knot. Jim was 82 years old at the time, while Stan was 64. Their wedding was a small, intimate affair, attended by close friends and family, and it was not until a few days later that they made the announcement to the media. Their union was significant not only because of their long history together but also because of the societal implications of their marriage in the context of the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States.

For Stan, marrying Jim Nabors was the culmination of a lifelong relationship. Despite their 18-year age gap, the couple’s bond was built on mutual respect, love, and shared experiences. Their decision to marry after so many years of being together was a profound moment for them, as it marked both a personal and public declaration of their commitment to one another.

Jim Nabors’ Health Struggles and Passing

Their marriage was not without its challenges. In 2012, Jim Nabors was diagnosed with Hepatitis B, which led to significant health complications. After undergoing a successful liver transplant, Jim’s health began to deteriorate over time. Despite the success of the surgery, Jim’s condition continued to worsen, and on November 30, 2017, Jim Nabors passed away at the age of 87. His death was attributed to natural causes, but it marked the end of a chapter for Stan and Jim, as they had shared many years together, both personally and professionally.

After Jim’s death, Stan, who had always been a private person, chose to step out of the spotlight even further. He lived quietly in O’ahu, Hawaii, where he had spent much of his life with Jim. In the aftermath of Jim’s passing, much of Jim’s estate was sold, including the property in Maui that Jim had owned. The estate was valued at $12 million and was sold in 2018, while the property in Maui was listed for $5 million in 2019. Stan’s life following Jim’s death has remained low-key, and he has avoided public attention.

What is Stan Cadwallader Doing Now?

As of 2025, Stan Cadwallader is 77 years old. Following Jim Nabors’ death, he has stayed out of the media’s gaze, choosing to live a more private life. While much of his public life was defined by his relationship with Jim, Stan has largely remained out of the public eye since his husband’s passing. It is unclear whether Stan has engaged in any new projects or pursuits since Jim’s death, but he has chosen to honor his late husband’s memory while keeping a low profile.

In interviews and reports, those close to Stan have described him as humble, loyal, and courageous, characteristics that defined his personal and professional life. His dedication to his work as a firefighter and his loyalty to Jim Nabors have left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Legacy and Final Thoughts

Stan Cadwallader’s story is one of love, humility, and quiet dignity. While his name may not be immediately recognizable to many, his place in history as Jim Nabors’ partner and husband is a significant one. Their 38-year relationship and eventual marriage highlighted the struggles and victories of the LGBTQ+ community in America, culminating in a momentous and loving union that was made official only after decades of secrecy.

Stan’s life after Jim’s death has remained private, but his legacy will always be linked to the man he loved and the years they spent together. Stan Cadwallader’s story serves as a reminder that love transcends fame, and sometimes, the most meaningful lives are those lived quietly and with integrity.