James Robert Crim

Sergeant James (Jim) Robert Crim, born on June 15, 1944, in Fairfield, Alabama, passed away at home in Odenville, Alabama, surrounded by his loving family on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the age of 80.

James is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, JoAnn; his children, Stephanie (Clif) and Stephen (Jill); his grandchildren, Ashlyn (Steve), Boyer, Cortlandt; and his in-laws, June Whiten (Mike), Denise Haskins (James), Larry Thornton (Renee) along with his beloved fur babies Buddy, Guinevere, and Tutu. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Odell Crim; and siblings Betty Hyche, Helen Carter, and Gary Crim.

A proud veteran, James served his country with honor as a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps from 1963 to 1967. He started his Marine Corps journey in Paris Island (1963), Portugal (1964), Camp LeJeune (1964-1965), Camp Pendleton (1966), Hawaii (1966), Japan (1966) and Vietnam (1966-1967). His military service exposed him to Agent Orange and contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, which led to a difficult battle with prostate and bladder cancer later in life. Even then, James faced his battle the only way he knew how—head-on, with grit, resilience, and a fighting spirit. He underwent 40 rounds of radiation and a bladder removal, never once letting the struggle define him.

James dedicated decades of hard work to his career at Porter Warner, F&S, and Mobile Abrasives, where he built not just a livelihood, but friendships and a reputation for excellence. He retired at the age of 80- a testament to his relentless work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.

He was a pillar of his faith communities—at Pleasant Grove Assembly of God and later at Odenville United Methodist Church. A man of routine and discipline, James was an avid gym-goer and never missed a workout. He was also a passionate athlete, played and managed competitive men’s softball teams for over 60 years—continuing until the age of 78. His teams competed for regional and national championships through the Softball Players Association which is the largest senior softball organization in the country. For his achievements, he was accepted into the Softball Hall of Fame. “James was a great player and great manager. His players were extremely loyal to him.”

But beyond the titles, medals, and accolades, James will be remembered most for his fierce love of family. He believed in raising strong, respectful children and grandchildren. When his granddaughter Ashlyn began dating, James welcomed each suitor the “Marine way”—running background checks, inspecting vehicles, and insisting on a workout before anyone earned the privilege of dinner. It was his way of saying, “If you love her, you better be strong enough to protect her.”

A proud “jarhead”—he was stubborn, loyal, and fearless. His handshakes were firm and his love was unwavering. He was the kind of man you only meet once in a lifetime—the kind who gives everything and asks for little in return. He was a fighter in every sense of the word, and he never stopped fighting—not for his country, not for his family, and not even in his final days.

A service will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, at Patterson Forest Grove Funeral Home. The family will gather at 9:30 a.m., followed by visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. An Interment service with full military honors will take place the following day Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at  Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Disabled American Veterans.

A special thank you to Southern Care New Beacon Hospice and his wonderful caregivers for their compassion and support.

“Semper Fi. I’d go again if they would take me.”

Patterson Forest Grove Funeral Home and Crematory is honored the Crim family has chosen to entrust the care of their loved one to us. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pattersonfuneralhomes.com.