James Crane

Salem, SC– James Dean Crane, 86, husband of Laura Leroy, of Salem, passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025, at his home.

 

Born in Cashiers, NC, Mr. Crane was the son of the late Columbus Homer and Ruby Grant Crane. Affectionally known as “Papa Dean”, he was a former Lab Technician at Clemson University and a member of Hopewell Baptist Church. Over the years, he served as Chairman of Deacons at many different churches. Mr. Crane was quick witted and never met a stranger. He loved all people, especially his family, and loved his Lord most of all. Mr. Crane enjoyed woodworking, becoming a self-taught master woodworker, and was an avid golfer.

 

In addition to his wife, Mr. Crane is survived by his sons: James Randall Crane (Lynn) and Gregory Dean Crane (Susan); step-sons: Jeremy Heath Leroy (Angie) and Donald Wayne Leroy; sisters: Judy Holcombe (Charles) and Charlotte Littleton (Dwayne); five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

 

In addition to his parents, in 2013 Mr. Crane was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children: Linda Sue Littleton Crane; brothers: William Eddie Crane, Benjamin Oliver Crane, and Robert Lewis Crane; and sister: Carolyn Reid.

 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Hopewell Baptist Church, with entombment to follow at Oconee Memorial Park.

 

The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Davenport Funeral Home.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prisma Health Hospice of the Foothills, attn: Foundation Office, 298 Memorial Dr., Seneca, SC 29672.

 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Hospice of the Foothills for their devoted attention and care.

 

The family is at their respective homes.