Final Salute

James Crowley, 84, died Sunday, March 26th in Van Buren, AR. He was born on June 30th, 1938 in the Lone Elm community in Franklin County to Walter and Bertha Hicks Crowley.
James graduated from Pleasant Valley High School where he was a standout basketball player. After graduating, he joined the U.S. Navy and retired as an E6 builder from the Seabee’s Reserve and Weyerhaeuser in Fort Smith, AR.
James was a brother of the Van Buren Masonic Lodge No. 6. A 32° Master Mason, he was a prophet of the Amrita Grotto, and a member of the Scottish Rite. He was a devoted Christian and member of Heritage Church in Van Buren, serving in many mission trips to Mexico to build homes for the less fortunate. He was a loyal member of Gideons International and distributed hundreds of scriptures throughout the state.
James is remembered by his friends and family for his sense of humor and quick wit. He always made a friend wherever he went and never met a stranger. He was a sketch artist having filled multiple sketchbooks with his art. When he was not playing dominoes he would spend his free time reading or watching the Razorbacks. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family.
James was preceded in death by three brothers: Monte, Wallace, and W.J. Two sisters: Leatha May Fisher and Florene Napier. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ellarene Crowley. A daughter, Carol Shawn. Two grandchildren: James Stumbaugh and Lynsey Stumbaugh. One great-grandson, Holden Lenz and many dear nieces and nephews.
A memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Gideon’s International. Special thanks to Heart of Hospice for their warmth and care. To express condolences visit ockerputmanfuneralhome.com

Published by Ocker Funeral Home – Van Buren on Mar. 30, 2023.