James "Jim" Marshall McCrary, a cherished resident of Seymour, Indiana, departed from this world on December 23, 2025, at Belmont Health Rehab in Columbus, Indiana. He was born on August 26, 1935, in the same loving embrace of the community he held dear, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven through 90 remarkable years.
For over 35 years, Jim dedicated his professional life as a counter salesman at Midway Supply, where his warm heart and infectious humor made him a beloved figure among customers and colleagues alike. Whether he was sharing a joke or lending a helping hand, Jim brought a sense of joy to every encounter, showcasing his inherent ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
A steadfast member of the Seymour Seventh-Day Adventist Church for more than seven decades, Jim exemplified devotion in his service as an elder and Sabbath School Teacher. His commitment extended beyond the spiritual as he took great pride in maintaining the church lawn and building, leaving a mark of care and dedication that reflected the kindness in his heart.
Jim was known for his generous spirit, often referred to fondly as “Pawpaw” Jim at Belmont Health and Rehab, where he brightened the day with songs like "You are my sunshine." His gift of gab was matched only by his love for children, sharing laughter and creating bonds that would last a lifetime. In the outdoors, he found peace and happiness; be it camping, fishing, or taking spontaneous joy rides that allowed him to explore the winding roads leading him to the beach or the Smoky Mountains, Jim embraced life with an adventurous soul.
Jim's legacy glimmers brightly through his beloved family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 71 years, Betty Joe Reynolds McCrary; his son, Steve McCarty of Seymour; and daughters Marsha Jones and her husband Victor, and Diane Daulton and her husband Dwayne, both of Columbus, Indiana. His warmth will echo through the lives of his grandchildren Ashley Ferrel and her husband Mike, and Nicholas Jones, as well as his great-grandchild Treyton Jones. He also leaves behind his cherished sister, Jackie Hoevener of Commiskey, Indiana.
Preceding Jim in death were his father George M. McCrary, his mother Daisy Lee Jaynes McCrary, and his brother Tom McCrary, who will undoubtedly welcome him with open arms.
Jim McCrary's life was a beautiful melody, captivating those around him with laughter, love, and light. His memory will continue to soothe hearts like the gentle strum of a guitar playing a cherished Southern Gospel tune, never to be forgotten by those who were lucky enough to know him. A visitation to celebrate his incredible journey will be held on December 29, 2025, at Christensen Family Funeral Home, where friends and family can share in the warmth of his memory from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Private family graveside services will be held the next day at Riverview Cemetery. The rhythms of his life resonate still, and though he may have left this earthly realm, his spirit will forever embrace the ones he loved.
The family requests that memorials be directed to Seymour Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.
Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.
Christensen Family Funeral Home
Riverview Cemetery
Visits: 71
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors