James Ellis Crosby Jr.

Age 82, of Jacksonville, died Aug. 16. Played piano by ear, and delighted friends and family with upbeat renditions of ragtime and Dixieland tunes. A 7th-generation Floridian, he grew up in rural Dixie County, an experience that kept him humble. Joined the family lumber business after graduating from Washington & Lee University and Emory Law School. Served 22 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. Maintained lasting friendships through dove hunting, Gators football, Ye Mystic Revellers, and school days at John Gorrie, Lee and Bolles. Preceded in death by parents Ellis and Addie, brother, Ted. Survived by wife of nearly 57 years, Marianne, children Jackie, Jay and Russell (Lynne), grandson Sean (Stephanie), great grandson Gage, sister-in-law Evelyn Crosby Callaghan (Bill), nephew Tod (Stephanie), niece Maria Pollard (Saint). Memorial service Thursday 11 a.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 4129 Oxford Av. Arrangements under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home Edgewood Chapel 729 S. Edgewood Avenue Jacksonville, Florida 32205.