Born in Bay Minette, Alabama, Jim was a lifelong learner. He earned his B.A. from Rhodes College in 1971 and his J.D. from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in 1974. Jim founded Crosby Law Firm, P.C. in Mobile, Alabama, where he served clients with dedication, wisdom, and expertise for a career that spanned five decades. Jim was a trusted counselor and zealous advocate. He practiced law with unwavering integrity and deep respect for others.
Jim’s commitment to public service extended beyond the courtroom; he proudly served on numerous boards, including the University of South Alabama Foundation. A man of deep intellect and wide-ranging interests, Jim was a member of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem and Phyllis Court, and was a regular invitee of the Bohemian Grove—connections that reflected both his values and his vibrant curiosity about the world.
He is survived by his cherished children James Hilton Crosby, III (Mary) and Stella Crosby Gjenasaj, son-in-law Izzy Gjenasaj, beloved grandchildren Theresa Lynn Gjenasaj, Zachariah Sal Gjenasaj, James Hilton Crosby, III and Caleb Victor Crosby, his devoted sister Bettigrey Crosby, uncle Dr. E. Brown Crosby, aunt Katherine Barron “Katchie” Cane, Richard Mozart Jensen and children Ruby and Lucy.
Jim was predeceased by the love of his life of 35 years Estelle West "Mickey" Crosby and by his parents John Dugald Crosby Jr. and Alicia Cane Crosby, uncle William Neil Crosby, sister Lynn Crosby Clark and brother John Dugald Crosby, III.
Jim will be remembered for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and steadfast devotion to his family, friends, and community. The depth of his intellect was matched only by his faith in God. Jim had an abiding love and respect for nature. He was a steward of the land and a southern gentleman. A curator of culinary experiences, he loved to sit around a table enjoying delicious food with family and friends, swapping stories, sharing laughs and setting the record straight. He was an arbiter of truth, a voracious reader, and an avid traveler. Jim Crosby was kind, humble, generous and wise. He will always be revered and missed by his family and friends.
Graveside services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025 in Old Springhill Cemetery, 315 Dilston Street, Mobile, AL with Rev. Norman H. McCrummen III officiating. A reception will follow at Ruth Chris Steakhouse, 2058 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36602 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m..
The family would like to thank the team at The Saad Hospice Retreat for their compassionate care and expertise. Memorials may be made to the University of South Alabama Foundation for the James H. Crosby Scholarship Fund, P. O. Box 3148, Mobile.
"A special thank you to Mary Courtney and Grey Cane for their tremendous support and assistance during this difficult time."
