Loftin Impala Parts

Growing up in Compton and Los Angeles, building cars with my friends and learning from OGs like Simeon Ginyard and Joe Ellis, I was blessed to have mentors who guided me when I needed encouragement and direction. Back then, many of us in the car-building community were looked down upon. People labeled us as thugs simply because we were young Black men working on cars that belonged to drug dealers, gang members, and everyday people throughout our communities. Too often, everything connected to us was viewed through a negative lens.

It’s amazing how time changes perspectives. The same culture, craftsmanship, and creativity that were once criticized are now celebrated around the world. Many of the car builders, fabricators, painters, chrome platers, upholsterers, and customizers I grew up with have become globally recognized legends whose knowledge and skills are sought after internationally.

One of the greatest honors of my life was when Simeon Ginyard and Joe Ellis would invite me to join them at schools such as Washington Preparatory High School in Los Angeles to work with young people and share our knowledge, experiences, and love for the automotive industry. Those moments reminded me that our responsibility was bigger than building cars—we were helping build futures.

Today, lowriding is celebrated across the globe as an art form, a culture, and a way of life. The impact of the pioneers who helped shape it will continue to inspire generations to come.

Simeon Ginyard, one of my legendary coaches, mentors, and friends, will be deeply missed and never forgotten. His wisdom, passion, and dedication to the culture left an imprint on countless lives. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of both Joe Ellis and Simeon Ginyard. Their legacies will continue to ride on through every car built, every lesson taught, and every young person inspired by their example.

Rest in Power, Joe Ellis. Rest in Power, Simeon Ginyard. Your work here is done, but your legacy lives forever.