James Robert Crawley

James Robert Crawley obituary, Shelby, NC

James Robert Crawley

James Crawley Obituary

Visit the Clay-Barnette Funerals, Cremations, & Aquamation Center - Shelby website to view the full obituary.

SHELBY: James "Jake" Robert Crawley passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, in Shelby, North Carolina, at the age of 78. Born on September 17, 1946, in Cleveland County, Jake was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jake dedicated over 30 years of his life to a fulfilling career at PPG Fiberglass Plant, where his hard work and commitment were greatly valued. Outside of his professional life, Jake had a deep-rooted love for simple pleasures. He found joy in cutting his grass, a task he approached with dedication and pride. He also cherished raising Beagle dogs and had a passion for old vintage tractors, both of which brought him immense happiness.

Those who knew Jake remember him as an honest, loyal, and loving man. He was known for his generosity and kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand or give the shirt off his back to someone in need. His giving nature and compassionate spirit left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

Jake is preceded in death by his parents, William Gamewell Crawley and Eva Scruggs Crawley. He leaves behind a loving family who will continue to cherish his memory: his brother, Charles Crawley; his sisters, Helen Alexander and husband Larry, and Janet McNeely and husband Bobby; nephews Robert Alexander and Shane McNeely; nieces Angel Alexander and Tanya Putnam; and his great-nephews and great-nieces August, Steve, Nicholas, Tyler, Zoey, Rebecca, and Joey.

A funeral service to honor Jake's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home, with Pastor Robert Lane officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow the funeral service at Sandy Run Baptist Church.

Jake's generous heart and loving spirit touched the lives of many, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

Services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center. www.claybarnette.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Make a Donation
in James Crawley's name

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.

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
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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 more
Resources 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
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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 more
Ways to honor James Crawley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.