James Eugene Crews, 81, of Collinsville, Illinois passed away on December 24, 2023. He was born to David and Martha (Haley) Crews on October 4, 1942 in St. Louis, Missouri.

James was a veteran who proudly served his country in the US Army. Upon returning from his service he married Frances Kuenkler on March 20,1964 in Granite City, Illinois. They enjoyed 48 years together before her passing in 2012. James worked at Nestle for 25 years before retiring in 1997. He was a member of the American Legion for many years, first in Glen Carbon and later in Collinsville. James enjoyed outdoor activities. His favorite pastimes were fishing and camping. He also looked forward to participating in annual turkey shoots. James was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who truly enjoyed spending time with family.

James is survived by his children Christine (Robert) Blevins, Edward (Dorothy) Crews, and James Jr. (Elizabeth) Crews, grandchildren Jonathan, Samantha, Rebecca, Jamie (Michael), Mike (Becky), Michele (Jay), Melanie (Joe), James, and Katherine, 7 great grandchildren, brother Dennis Crews, sisters-in-law Carol (Bob) Soehnlin, Margaret Kuenkler, Janet Crews, and many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents David and Martha, stepfather Vernon McClane, his beloved wife Frances Crews, brother David, sister-in-law Janice Malone, brother-in-law William Kuenkler, and son Jeffrey.

Services will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Sunset Hill Funeral Home, 50 Fountain Drive, Glen Carbon, Illinois with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m and the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made in his name to the American Heart Association. James will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.