James Lee Cripe

Jim Cripe—a devoted husband, cherished father, loving son, true friend, successful businessman, and a wonderful Poppy—passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with dementia on February 27, 2025, at the age of 81.

Born in South Bend, Indiana, on August 2, 1943, Jim later made Louisiana his home and eventually graduated from Northwest Louisiana University in 1965. A talented musician, he played trumpet in his high school band, The Lucky Seven, and later traveled with The Gentrys among other bands in the 70’s. He also taught himself to play the piano, often entertaining his children.

Jim built a successful career, starting at Litton Industries before settling in Temple, Texas, where he worked for Texas Hydraulics and Strasberger Enterprises. In 1972, he met the love of his life, Lillian “Cissy” Zehr, and they married that July, blending their families. In 1975, they welcomed another son, completing their family of four children.

Always entrepreneurial, Jim purchased Valet Cleaners and Laundry in 1975. He dedicated over 50 years to the dry-cleaning business and was actively involved in the Texas Laundry and Drycleaning Association, the International Fabricare Institute, and the Southwest Drycleaners Association, serving as President and Chairman of the Board of both.

A faithful Christian, Jim was an elder at First Christian Church for over 30 years. He had a zest for adventure, earning his pilot’s license, playing racquetball, biking, and traveling across the U.S. with Cissy in their RV. Whether visiting the Mall of America, a casino in Shreveport, or an antique show in Dallas, they embraced every journey.

Jim was also a dedicated Freemason, serving as a Mason in the Masonic Lodge for over 40 years. He was deeply committed to the values of integrity, charity, and community service.

Although Jim faced his fair share of health challenges later in life, he remained the ever positive encouraging person God led him to be, always ready to listen and help out when friends and family were in need.

Jim is survived by his loving children: Kelli Cripe Nelson, Debbie Cripe-Drake and husband Stan, Allan Cripe and wife Molly, and Daniel Cripe and wife Rachel

He was a proud grandfather of twelve and great-grandfather of four, bringing joy and love to all their lives.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lillian “Cissy” Cripe (2012), his parents, Elwood and Effie Cripe, and his younger brother, Larry Cripe.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held with family and friends at Scanio Harper Funeral Home in Temple. Visitation will be Thursday, March 6 from 5-7pm and a funeral service on Friday, March 7 at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Jim Cripe will be forever missed, but his faith, music, and love will remain in our hearts always.

In lieu of flowers memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.Alz.org) would be appreciated.