James Crady

At 4:30p.m. on July 28, 2018 James Roland Crady was called to his new home. His family had gathered to celebrate his 95th birthday. He answered the call quickly with no struggle. His family was by his side. He was born July 28, 1923, at home in Scurry, Texas to the late Henry Briggs Crady and Ethel Irene Davis. He was the ninth and final child born into his family. He grew up on the farm and learned at a very young age what it meant to work hard. At the age of nine he accepted Christ as his personal savior. He always lived out his faith. Knowing him you knew there was a deep personal commitment to following the example of Christ and being a reflection to others.

On April 1, 1942, he married Cora Dell Crady. A marriage lasting almost 60 years until her passing in December 2001. They were blessed with two sons, the late James Roland Crady, Jr. born October 30, 1944 and Glenn Ricky (Rick) Crady born January 14, 1952.

In August 1944, he was called to serve his country. Assigned to F Co., 359th Infantry, 90th Infantry Division he patrolled from France to Germany as an Infantryman in Patton's 3rd Army. He was honorably discharged as Private First Class in February 1946 having earned the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge. This was one of the real highlights of his life. He was always proud that he served but most of all he was thankful that God provided his protection so that he could return home. Most anytime you asked him about the war he was ready to share stories of battles and the many experiences he had while serving his country.

In August of 1946 he was hired by CertainTeed Products Corporation as a maintenance helper and over the next 38 years he would rise to the position of Chief Master Electrician. He was an innovator who developed various controls and processes which would be used all over the country in the roofing industry. He retired in September 1984 because the plant was sold. In 1986, he returned to the old CertainTeed location and began working for Tamko Asphalt Products, Inc. He implemented new processes for Tamko which they use even today in their plants across the country. His work ethic, commitment, loyalty and genius mind allowed him to become a well-known name in the roofing industry. He taught many young men the electrical trade and several are still employed in various jobs because of his teaching and encouragement.

His son, Rick, married Debbie in 1971. Debbie was his favorite daughter-in-law and he would always tell folks. (of course, she was the only one) His greatest joys were his two grandsons James Roland Crady, III and Jeremy Reid Crady. James and his wife Kristen live in Waxahachie with their children James Roland Crady IV (14) and Morgan Afton Crady (11). Jeremy and his wife Brynn live in Nashville, Tennessee with their three daughters, Presley Mea (5), Ayla Rae (3) and Merle Alise (1).

In 2009, he surprised everyone by enrolling in dance lessons. He began to dance and continued until the fall of 2017. He began to have back issues and could not stand long enough to swing the ladies around the dance floor. This activity brought so much joy to his life.

The family wants to say thanks to Kindred Kare Hospice, Visiting Angels, and Legend Oaks Nursing and Rehab for the hours of care received during the months when Granpaw was declining. It was always pleasant dealing with wonderful professional organizations. Thanks to those who visited and prayed during these past months.

Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Wayne Boze Funeral Home, Waxahachie. Services will be at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Wayne Boze. Interment will be at Laurel Land Cemetery on Interstate 35, Dallas, Texas. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Waxahachie Bible Church, 621 N. Grand Avenue, Waxahachie, TX 75165.

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