James Franklin Crytser, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully after a four-month battle with cancer in his hometown of Morgantown, on Nov. 22, 2023. He was born on Oct. 17, 1936, in Morgantown, leaving a lasting legacy for his family and community.
Jim was a dedicated family man who was deeply loved by his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Laurie Crytser; his children, Jimmy Crytser and wife Kelley, Laurie Barbe and husband Steve, Tim Crytser and wife Leslie; and his daughter-in-law, Becky Crytser. He was a proud grandfather to Rachel, Alli, Derek, Drew, David, and Dillon; and a doting great-grandfather to Cecilia, Tommy, Cole, and one on the way. He is also survived by his brother, Bud Crytser and wife Marge; and his sister, Sharon Crytser Petitte. Jim also leaves behind a large number of additional and dear family members and friends in West Virginia, Florida, and beyond. He is now resting in so much love. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward and Rena Pearl Baker Crytser; grandson, Derek Crytser; brother-in-law, Jasper Petitte; and his father- and mother-in-law, Louis and Sophie Laurie.
He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. Jim was a man of many talents and interests, known for his ability to fix anything and his knack for creative solutions. He was a natural handyman, even building his own home. He spent his professional life as a Quality Control Engineer for Consolidation Coal Company, where he was respected for his intelligence and attention to detail. Jim was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and Elks Lodge, contributing his time and skills to these organizations.
Outside of work, Jim had a zest for life that was infectious. He was an avid golfer and had a passion for classic cars, which he shared with his brother Bud and son-in-law Steve. He was particularly proud of his ’57 Buick, which he purchased after high school. In his younger years, he drove race cars, a testament to his adventurous spirit. In his later years, he found enjoyment at the shooting range and, alongside his daughter, watching Fox News for hours at a time. He also enjoyed two simple pleasures in life —Yuengling and Fritos.
Jim’s family would like to recognize the excellent care he received while at Morgantown Healthcare Center (formerly Stonerise) and the guidance and passionate care he received from Amedisys Hospice. His family will be forever grateful.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Fred L. Jenkins Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 27, and again on Tuesday, Nov. 28, from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Rev. Junius Lewis officiating. Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest at Pleasant Hill Cemetery with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to The Derek Crytser Memorial Education Fund, P.O. Box 1297, Ashland, VA 23005. Donations can also be made by calling The Hanover Education Foundation: 804-365-4560 or 804-365-4565 or online: http://hcps.us/staff/hanover_education_foundation/donate. Click on the blue “donate online” button! Enter “Derek Crytser Memorial Scholarship” in the details box below Hanover Education Foundation (HEF) Donation.
Condolences: www.fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com
