James Bryan Crooks

James "Jim" Bryan Crooks, passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, following an extended illness. He was 62 years old. Born in New York City to Edward and Patricia Crooks, Jim spent nearly his entire life in Danbury, CT. Jim made lasting friendships with his classmates from St. Joseph's School, Danbury High School, and Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering technology.

Jim was an avid sportsman and never backed down from skiing the double black diamond runs at Killington's Bear Mountain. In summer months, he could be found golfing at Richter Park and cheering on the Mets. Jim also was a spirited game player and particularly enjoyed engaging with family and friends in board games like Monopoly and Chess, or a hand of Setback. Gregarious and quick-witted, Jim enjoyed watching Ohio State beat Michigan and other sporting events at TK's American Café while sharing a cold beer and hot wings with friends. In addition, Jim loved movies and classic television shows. If you were playing trivia, Jim was the guy to have on your team!

Jim held several occupations in his lifetime, but the job he loved most was being out on the open road crisscrossing the country as a long-haul trucker. By the time he retired he'd "been everywhere, man." In recent years, Jim dedicated himself to Jesus Christ, which gave him renewed life and a genuine love for the people around him. He found a true home among the caring members of Living Stones Community Church in New Milford, CT.

Jim is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Crooks, and brother-in-law, David Geldmacher, of Birmingham, AL; his nephew John "Bud" Geldmacher of Okinawa, Japan; niece Kate Geldmacher Wilson of Houston, TX; his uncle, Gary Dougherty, of Fredericksburg, VA; "Stamford Cousins" Kathleen, Patrick, and Ed; "Florida Cousins" Brian, Tim, Mike, Mary, Trish, and Sean; and his best friend and "brother" Thom Fiorini. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his cousins Gary and Eileen Dougherty.

There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family requests that you remember Jim by making some popcorn, watching a great movie with the people you love, and then quizzing everyone about who played minor roles.