James Dennis Crum

James Dennis Crum, 77, of Amarillo, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 10, 2026.

Born on December 23, 1948, in Denison, Texas, to Ed and Mary Crum, James grew up with a strong sense of duty and curiosity that would shape his life. He proudly served in the Vietnam War with the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army as a helicopter A&P certified mechanic. For 11 months he supported combat operations, displaying remarkable bravery under fire. His helicopter was shot down twice, yet he continued to carry out his duties and help others. For his courage and service, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Air Medal with “V” Device and 7 Oak Leaf Clusters.

After returning from military service, James married Martha “Ann” Pendleton of Sunray. Together they built a life centered on family and hard work. He enjoyed a long career as a salesman, first with K&N Electric, where he managed his own territory in Burkburnett, Texas, until all of their children graduated from high school. James and Ann later moved to Amarillo to be closer to family, and he spent the next decade working with Coldwell Banker.

James was a man of many talents who loved baseball, fishing, working on cars, inventing clever gadgets, and spending time with his dogs. He had a deep interest in science and devoted countless hours to helping with his children’s science fair projects, school activities, and homecoming floats. If something was broken, James could usually fix it or make it better. He coached baseball, enjoyed watching car races, and faithfully attended his grandchildren’s musicals and sports events. To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Paw Paw,” and he took great pride in watching them grow.

James is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Martha Ann Crum; his children, Susan Bradley and husband John, Deanna Hurt and husband David, and James Crum and wife Erica; his grandchildren, Gracie, Bradley, Colby, Boston, Jeremiah, Naivia, Eli, and Axel; and his brother, David Crum. He will be remembered for his strength, humor, intelligence, and the deep love he had for his family, often guided by the simple philosophy he shared: “If it is to be, it’s up to me.”