James Crawford

James Leonard Crawford Sr., 68, of Cambridge, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Born on July 23, 1956, the beloved son of Georgia Mae Stewart and the late Leonard J. Crawford.

A proud graduate of Cambridge High School, Class of 1974, James furthered his education at trade school, earning multiple certifications as a Diesel Mechanic and later as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA). James began his career working in the coal mines in Cadiz, OH and later showcased his exceptional mechanical skills at MPW and Columbia Gas Transmission. Inspired by his father’s example, James eventually enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Diesel Mechanic, proudly serving his country. After his military service, he returned to Cambridge and dedicated much of his time to helping friends and neighbors by repairing their vehicles, often free of charge, demonstrating his generosity and commitment to serving his community.

Known for his vibrant personality and quirky habits, James enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, including basketball, automobile repair, reading the newspaper, walking his dogs, riding his bike, and exploring scenic country roads. A natural storyteller and the life of every gathering, he cherished attending his high school reunions and reconnecting with lifelong friends. He had a special connection to the Gomber Avenue Park, where his passion for basketball inspired and guided young athletes. Whether he was coaching, playing, or yelling louder than anyone from the sidelines, James left a lasting impact on the young athletes who were fortunate to know (and be schooled) by him. James’ kindness extended to his neighborhood kids as well, as he often helped them fix their bikes (giving him an excuse to accumulate a massive collection of bike parts) and offered some of the best life advice to anyone who would listen.

James is survived by his mother, Georgia Mae Stewart; his children: Amy Crawford (Jason) Payton of Kimbolton, Ashley Crawford of Reynoldsburg, Alexis Crawford of Cambridge, and James L. Crawford Jr. of Cambridge; siblings: Freddie Crawford of Las Vegas, Leonard Crawford of Pickerington, Robert (Stephanie) Stewart of Circleville, and Diane Stewart of Reynoldsburg; sisters-in-law: Marvenia Bosley and Pam McKim. He was a proud grandfather, lovingly called “Pawpaw,” to Mackenzie Wolverton, Scottie Minnis, Zakirah Smith, Jailyn King, Averyanna Crawford, and James L. Crawford III, as well as a great-grandfather to Brentley Crawford and Elle Crawford. And an entertaining crew of nieces and nephews.

James also leaves behind cherished friends, including Regina Churchill (his first love and mother of his two oldest children), Adele Flowers, Dave Fluharty, Mike Andrews, Brad Lauer, Harold Hollins, Terry Sisk, Carolyn Burkam (his favorite nurse), and his southside neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard J. Crawford; his deeply admired stepfather, Robert Stewart; his infant son, Marcus Crawford; his sister, Kedra Wyatt; close friends Nora J. Williams and Tammy Hollins (a lifelong, loving companion and mother of his two youngest children); nephews, Shane McCuen, Leonard Crawford III and Shannon Crawford; and dear friends Jimmy Ball and Buck Hollins.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Bonnell Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 420 N. 8th Street, Cambridge, OH, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

James Leonard Crawford Sr. will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered for his knack for “fixing” anything with just duct tape, his hilarious voice impressions, strolling through town with his well-trained, leash-free dogs, challenging folks half his age to a game of HORSE or in a 1 mile race, and his infamous reputation as the last person you’d want teaching you to drive a stick shift. His signature sayings, such as “It’s good training” and “Strong body, strong mind,” had a miraculous way of fitting just about every life situation. Jokingly dubbed the “unofficial” mayor of the Southside, he had a gift for weaving life lessons into every conversation while making everyone around him feel as though there was nowhere else, he’d rather be than right there with them.

Bonnell Cremations Funerals & Receptions have the distinct honor of serving the family.
A full obituary will be published soon.
To sign the online guest book please visit www.bonnellcfr.com