Peabody…..

James B. "Jim" Crocker, age 85, former husband of Elizabeth (Pappas) Crocker of Peabody and Helen (Gauthier) (Pierce) Crocker of Plant City, FL, died early Wednesday morning in the Hunt Nursing Home, Danvers following a brief illness.

Born in Johnson City, NY the son of the late William Henry and Esther (Compton) Crocker he was raised in Lynn. A graduate of Lynn Classical High School, Mr. Crocker was a well known, outstanding member of varsity football team.

Following his graduation, he began a long construction career. By the time he retired, Mr. Crocker had worked in most phases of construction from demolition to finish work in the greater Boston Area. An avid sports fan, he was a dedicated Red Sox and Patriots Fan.

Among his activities in the community, he was a longtime member of the Salem Masonic Temple, Essex Lodge.

In addition to his former wives, Mr. Crocker is survived by five children James William Crocker and his wife Tobe of Windham, NH, Irene Janice Crocker of Wells, ME, Deborah Lynn Crocker-Siopis and her husband George of Peabody, MA,, Helen Esther Crocker of North Berwick, ME and Earl Pierce of Newburyport; four grandchildren Stephen N. and George A. Siopis and Jaime R. and Kelsey R. Crocker and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a brother Richard H. Crocker.

His funeral service, with Mason Ritual will be held on Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at 4:00 P.M. in the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St, Salem. Visitation will be before the services on Tuesday from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. in the funeral home. Interment will be private. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society; 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. For online guest book or additional information please call 978 744 0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com