James "Jimmy" M. Crain

James began life in Hart County, Kentucky, in 1942, when he was born the second of four siblings to Rutherford (Jr.) and Stella Crain. James went on to serve 2 years in the United States Army as an MP in Fort Riley, Kansas. In 1966, James wed his wife of 57 years, Gayle. He and Gayle eventually settled in Greenville, Indiana where they raised one son, Cabe. James also forged a successful career while working at Fire King International in New Albany, Indiana as Lead Product Design Engineer. He retired from there in 2008.

At age 14, James began a lifelong equine interest when he started showing quarter horses with his younger brother (Gary) and sister (Beverly). He competed in quarter horse shows for several years until the demands of work and family commanded a majority of his attention. Later in life, James was able to continue and share his interest in horses once again with his daughter-in-law Denise, and friends Wayne, Larry, and Walt Kessinger.

Surviving family includes his wife Gayle, son Cabe, sister Beverly, brother Gary, sister-in-law Phyllis, daughter-in-law Denise, and two loving grandchildren Colton and Reagan. James was preceded in death by parents Rutherford and Stella, sister Carolyn, and nephew Eric.

The family would like to acknowledge James’ extended family; Jeff, Kevin, Jamie, Kyle, Rachel, Zach, and Michael. Close friends: Wayne and Regina, Larry and Judy, Walt and Marty, Jack and Janice, Steve and Linda, Dennis and Gail, and Mary Jane and Paul.

The family would also like to thank the countless medical professionals and office staff who assisted him during his fight with cancer. Those at the Baptist Health Floyd Cancer Center and Baptist Health Floyd Cardiac Intensive Care Unit provided exceptional levels of care and empathy. Last, but never least, are the “the girls” at Baptist Health Floyd Ambulatory Unit. You all will never be forgotten. God bless and thank you for everything!

Please join us in celebrating his life at Kraft Funeral Home, 708 E Spring St. New Albany, Indiana. Visitation hours are Thursday, September 14th from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday, September 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service directly following.

The family asks that any donations in James’ honor be made to Hosparus Health of Southern Indiana and Gideons International.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kraftfuneralservice.net for the Crain family.