Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
James Leslie Crawford Jr.
James Leslie Crawford Jr.
Obituary
Guest Book
James Crawford Obituary
A guy walks into a bar with his friends, and they all try to impress this woman. And they all fail. Except him. He persuades her to let him go along to the party she's going to next. He gets her number. Two and a half years later, they marry, on Sept. 11, 1999.
James L. Crawford Jr., 33, was an equity trader at Cantor Fitzgerald. Jon Vonder Linden, one of his 11 groomsmen, remembers sharing a shore house with him years ago. They began a tradition in which they would hit each other on the head with a shoe, as a cure for snoring. That worked until Mr. Vonder Linden hit Mr. Crawford with a golf shoe. The kind with metal spikes.
"There was blood everywhere," Mr. Vonder Linden recalled. "I thought I'd killed him." But Mr. Crawford, his loyal and larger-than-life friend, simply suggested they switch to flip-flops.
"Whatever he did, he did with a lot of spirit," his father recalled.
His wife, Lisa Crawford, misses his evening ritual, which used to drive her nuts. Every night he would vacuum their dogs' hair from the kitchen floor. It helped him unwind. "Some people used to come home from work and have a beer," she said. "He used to dust-bust."
She gave birth to their first child, Isabelle, in November.
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on May 5, 2002.
CRAWFORD-James Leslie, Jr., of Madison, New Jersey, 33 years old, who attended Berkshire School and graduated from Lynchburg College, was an equity trader at Cantor Fitzgerald. He died September 11th in the senseless tragedy of the World Trade Center attack. An avid sportsman, he lived life to the fullest with his beloved family and many friends. He was the loving husband of Lisa B. Crawford of Madison, NJ; son of Betsy and Jim Crawford of New Vernon, NJ; and brother to Leslie Dunlevy of Mendham, NJ, and Liz VanDuyne, of Greenwich, CT. His friends and family alike will sorely miss his zest for life. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 27th, at 11:00 A.M. at The Church of Christ the King on Blue Mill Road, New Vernon, New Jersey (973) 539-4955. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jimmy's memory to the James L. Crawford, Jr. Educational Trust for the Benefit of Baby Crawford, C/O Matthew Clark Zolin, Trustee, 34 Oval Avenue Riverside, CT. 06878 or the charity of your choice, in Jimmy's name.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Steven Hubbard
September 11, 2022
I knew Jim from our Beacon Hill Club days in Summit, NY. Jim was one of the better hockey players and all around athletes. No surprise that he played college lacrosse. Jim was friendly to everyone, even the younger kids, which I was one of them. His family had a great reputation in Summit. Denver Airport had a 9/11 Memorial and I was so saddened and proud at the same time to see Jim's name honored. Jim is the first person I think of when I hear September 11th.
Del Newberry
December 18, 2021
So many lives cut short on that horrible day. Praying today for James' family and hope that you have some comfort in knowing that so many of us will forever remember you and keep you in our thoughts. Much love from Texas
Lupe V
September 13, 2021
James sounds like a great man, and he will not be forgotten.
Cindy Roe
September 5, 2021
Remembering James on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Rob Murray
September 11, 2016
Thinking about you Jimmy! We shared so many good times at MBS, playing hockey, Summit, KPS dances, Nantucket, Concerts, NYC parties., etc...miss you, ! Need to meet your wife and daughter one day!
September 14, 2015
To The Family,
Like millions of other caring persons, every year at this time the tragedy of 9/11 comes to mind. I did not know Mr. Crawford personally but please know that others do care. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Mr. Terry of NC
Henning vonhaefen
September 11, 2015
Another year, again, my condolences to the Crawford family!
Joan and Ron Domingues
September 11, 2015
We met you, Betsy and Jim, on the Germany cruise. I still think of you on the anniversary of Sept 11, and often in between. Your son sounds like a wonderful man and a treasure to his family. We didn't know you well but we grieve with you. Sincerely,
David Gilbert
September 15, 2014
I just want to let the family and friends of Mr Crawford know that he was not forgotten this year. I participated in the 2 Million Bikers to DC 9/11 Memorial Ride in Washington and we were all given someones name to ride for. I had the honor of riding in his memory and his name is now a part of my helmet and my life. Words cannot describe describe how emotional this was for me . My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy. Just know that he was not forgotten.
September 11, 2013
Craw
On this day above all others I can still see you in class. Its become a day memories; of laughter and tears but most importantly, remembering what can never be forgotten
pax et bonum
NS
November 9, 2012
I was Jim's roomy at New Hampton School...we met at Wolfboro Camp School the Summer before New Hampton.
I am shocked and in disbelief.
He was a really fun guy to be around, great athlete and a good friend.
RIP Jim.
Major Terry Crawford
February 4, 2012
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Mark Capper
September 15, 2011
Sending thoughts and prayers from Australia to your family and friends. We will never forget.
September 12, 2011
Your daddy would be so proud of you and is watching over you with big smiles and laughter. Remember you have a guardian angel who is always there whenever you need him. My daddy, who I lost when I was 14, still winks at me all the time. Close your eyes, visualize your daddy Jimmy and he will be right with you. Your father was an incredible guy who made everyone's day a brighter one. Sending lots of love and remembering our dear friend jimmy!
Britt Westerback
September 10, 2011
Cheers to you Jimmy in Heaven, 10 years later.... great memories of you from Lynchburg College. We will never forget
Suzanne Strasser
October 22, 2010
My dear Lisa:
Having lost my father at an early age, I am beyond sensitive to how valuable these remberences are for your daughter. Her father had energy that lit up a room and was contagious. You and your daughter should know that you have the most wonderful guardian angel who is watching you from above. Watch out for the beautiful signs he send to connect with you. My father is still sending them 26 years later. I know your daughter will grow up to be proud to have Jimmy as her Dad and he will be beaming with pride from heaven. Sending much love to you, your daughter and his entire family. Suz
Michael Tappan
July 2, 2010
I never knew you, but your father and I were childhood friends and then worked together and stayed friends over the years. I attended your parents' wedding so many years ago. I wish I had known you. It sounds like you were a great guy.
jason shulman
September 11, 2009
thinking of you today buddy. I know your smiling up there somewhere and we are thinking of you down here.
Doug Abraham
March 15, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Duncan Buchanan
September 17, 2008
I went to high school and college with Jimmy. Jim had a great sense of humor and a great person to be around. Prayers and blessings to his family.
Suzanne Strasser
September 11, 2008
Everytime i saw Jimmy he greeted me with a huge, "suuuuuuuuuuuuzz!!!" His incredible energy was contagious whenever I saw him at Hobart or on the city streets...I send love to all his friends and family for their loss and am keeping him in my thoughts today as I do every year.
Caroline Dwulet
September 11, 2008
I went to Lynchburg College with Jim....I am deeply sorry for his family, but I know your love for him never dies and he is holding a place for you right next to him......
Peter Dyckman Fyfe
July 28, 2008
I tried to call and write the family when first I heard the dreadful news (this from Abbie who read it in the Princeton Alumni News) My thoughts were and remain with you all. piet (Brooklyn & Poly)
September 13, 2007
Looking Jim's smiling face takes me back. I did not know Jim well while we were at Berkshire, but I remember a kind hearted guy with a great sense of humor. What a terrible, terrible loss. Jim's loved ones are in my thoughts and prayers.
hannah dunlevy
June 21, 2007
i miss you uncle jimmy.
Kristine
October 30, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 16, 2006
In remembrance....
Fred Dewey
September 10, 2006
Thinking of the entire Crawford family this evening.
Bill Patterson
October 19, 2005
I played football with Jim at Berkshire School. Jim was also in the same dorm with me. I remember Jim's energy and zest for life. I can only imagine the grief and pain that his passing has caused his family and friends. Jim and I were not close friends but we shared plenty of laughes and we had a great time playing football.
God bless Jim and his family.
Lorna Cobham-Mendelson
September 16, 2004
I graduated from The New Hampton School with Jim in '87 and remember him fondly. He was such a fun loving person, and already a gentleman at only 18yrs. I work in One Liberty Plaza, across the street from the trade center site today, just as I did three years ago. It follows that I think of Jim and the family he left behind often. My prayers are with his parents, sisters, and wife, but most especially with his daughter Isabelle, who was born within weeks of my own daugher, and who can only now learn about her father from all who knew him and/or loved him. May God bless Jim, and the entire Crawford family.
Hugh McKee
January 29, 2004
Jim was my bowling partner in Lynchburg College in Bowling class. Good times
Anonymous
September 11, 2003
I remember you. Have been remembering you. Your force, your energy, your willingness to enjoy yourself at all costs. You were one of the guys that made it look easy. You possessed that most necessary ingredient for a life well lived: passion. My tribute to you and all those whose lives were lost on september 11th, 2001, is to live my life with passion. And to remember that by honoring all life, we honor those who have died.
Sophie Fenwick
September 11, 2003
I was at Berkshire School with Jim, and I extend my warmest sympathy to everyone in his family and closest friends. He was a very nice person and will be remembered by all he met along his way.
Darrell Gustafson
September 11, 2003
Just wanted you to know that we are thinking of you, Lisa and Isabelle.
Darrell, Beth and Eleanor
Jim Skidmore
June 1, 2003
Just taking a moment to remember ya crawdaddy.
john o'sullivan
September 13, 2002
I WORKED WITH JAMES AT SMITH BARNEY FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS...GOOD GUY...GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CRAWDADDY!..JOHN O.
David HART
September 11, 2002
Jim and I never saw eye to eye on many things but I still thought he was a friend. He will be missed
Kristen Feld - Rodier
September 11, 2002
I new James from Lynchburg College and he was full of energy, laughter and friendship. My heart and prayers continue to go out to you and your family.
Kate Ross (McCumber)
September 11, 2002
I knew Jim for many, many years and was shocked to learn the tragic news. I had not kept in touch after Lynchburg College, but know many that did. Jim was and always will be a wonderful person and friend. To his family, I can only say that I am personally sorry and devastated for your loss. My prayers are with you and all of the victims' families.
Andrew Hazen
September 11, 2002
A picture stands out in my memory - our nursery school picture in Summit, NJ. Jim Crawford and myself near each other. We were great friends early in our youth. I recall him to be one of the most energized, fun-loving and strongest individuals to be with. The honor of having fond memories of those early childhood days will be with me forever. My deepest sympathies to his wife, child, family and friends. Jimmy lives on through you! God Bless You All!
Christine Carmichael
September 11, 2002
As a life-long friend of Alison Crawford, of Edinburgh, Scotland, I join in her in her sorrow at losing her "baby cousin" Jimmy in such a tragedy. My best wishes to Lisa and Isabelle, who don't know me, but they are often in my thoughts.
September 11, 2002
Crawdaddy, We love you!!
Marilee Root
August 21, 2002
Employees of the health department in Pierce County are participating in performing deliberate acts of kindness and compassion dedicated to the memory of those lost on September 11th. Since I didn't personally know anyone who died, I chose to pick one of the cards we received here with individuals names on them, and I got Jim's. I guess everyone in the country and a good percentage of the rest of the world grieved on 9.11, whether we personally knew victims of the tragedy or not. But having a name and knowing even a little about that person's life, and then peforming some act of hope dedicated to that person, gives a sense of "connectedness" I haven't had before now. Before I had Jim's name, I wasn't sure I would even follow through with participation in the activities planned here, but now I know I will. I'll e-mail you again once I've decided exactly what that will be. In the meantime, I will be praying for the family and friends of James L. Crawford as we approach that difficult one-year anniversary.
Anonymous
May 10, 2002
When I first me Jim at Lynchburg College both became part of the same crowd. We did many things together. Every day since September 11th I have though about him and felt the loss of his passing. Although we did not spend much time together after college, when I did see him we just picked up where we had left off.
Patty Ward
January 16, 2002
I just began wearing a Mercy Band for James Crawford. I will be remembering him and praying by name for his family daily. My prayer will be that you all find peace and comfort in the loving memories you have of James.
Teresa Jahn
January 5, 2002
We are very sorry for your loss of James. May his enjoyment as a sportsman, his life and love live on in those who love him. May you always feel the warmth of his love radiate into your hearts. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
toby hartz
January 4, 2002
as one of my best friends, not a day goes by without me thinking of you and our memorable times together. my heart goes out to lisa and the rest of your family...i know what they are going through. as you look down from above, know that you are deeply missed, but are in a much happier place. i look forward to seeing you someday.
Katie Hartz
January 2, 2002
Jim - Toby and I miss you - whether its your smile and spirit on the paddle court, or those phone calls to see how we are. I know that you are in safe hands - I have asked that my father (who was also lost) look out for you, as we will look out for Lisa and your beautiful baby girl.
We miss you.
Kevin Kamenski
January 2, 2002
Jim,
You will be missed. Our thoughts & prayers are with you & your family forever. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you.
Kevin, Lisa & Kara
Chris Crawford
January 1, 2002
God be with all of those who lost a fellow Crawford. I can not begin to pretend to understand your loss. You have namesake who are thinking and praying for you. The Crawford's of southwest Indiana are on bended knee. Don't hesitate to lean on us.
Chris
Anonymous
January 1, 2002
MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU JAMES LESLIE
CRAWFORD JR..AND MAY YOU REST IN
PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD
BLESS YOUR WIFE AND FAMILY AND MAY
WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Adam Foulke
October 24, 2001
Jim intersected my life at many intervals. First was a memorable summer in Martha's Vineyard. Again at Lynchburg College (I attended Roanoke College nearby). And finally, and most significantly in NYC. We had many laughs at the R&T and many adventures in Gotham. I remember Jim, or Craw-daddy, very fondly and pray for him and his family often.
leslie miller
October 23, 2001
Please find comfort in memories of a full and happy life. Our prayers are with you, always.
sandy king
October 15, 2001
I grew up with Jimmy but got to know him again at hockey school and remember his energy and humor. He is missed.
Julie Rake
October 11, 2001
I want to extend my deepest condolences to Jim's mother Betsy, whom I have known since my childhood from summers in Little Compton, to Jim's dad Jim and also to his wife Lisa, whom I have never met. I am so very sorry. Julie Rake
Sean Curry
September 26, 2001
I met Jim at Lynchburg College. We played on the same lacrosse team together. As I recall those times, the first thing that comes to my mind happens to be his smile. Jim smiled a lot.
I'll always remember Jim's smile, and his memory will serve to counter all of the tragic images from these trying times. My most sincere condolences go out to his family.
Julie Atwood (Sullivan)
September 25, 2001
My husband Mark and I remember Jimmy from Little Compton in the summers when we were kids. We are both so sorry to hear that he was in the WTC during this tragedy. Our condolences to his wife and family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Showing 1 - 57 of 57 results
Make a Donation
in James Crawford's name
How to support James 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Crawford's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored