James Crane

James Alma Crane
July 3, 1938 – May 27, 2025

James Alma Crane, 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Salina, Utah.

Jim was born on July 3, 1938, to Elliot and Wonda Shepherd Crane. He graduated from North Sevier High School, Class of 1956, and went on to earn an associate degree from the College of Southern Utah. He later attended the Range Management Program at Utah State University.

On November 26, 1960, Jim married Georgena Christensen in Centerfield, Utah. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Utah Temple on September 13, 1975. Georgena passed away on December 28, 2003.

Jim proudly served in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963 at Fort Ord, California. He was a dedicated scout leader during the 1960s and 70s and served more than 20 years with the Sevier County Jeep Posse and as an EMT. He was a current member of the Sevier County Ham Radio Association and found great joy in his service at the Manti Temple.

A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jim had a deep and abiding testimony of Jesus Christ. He was a devoted farmer and rancher who found peace in open pastures, joy in the saddle, and fulfillment in caring for animals—especially the strays who always seemed to find him. He loved the land, working tirelessly to improve the range for both cattle and wildlife. Hunting, fishing, camping, and side-by-side rides with his loyal dogs were among his favorite pastimes. But above all, Jim was most proud of his family. His greatest harvest wasn’t from the field—it was the children he raised.

Jim is survived by his children:

• Cayle Crane of Salina

• Kevin (Kathy) Crane of Centerfield

• Casey Crane of Salina

• Jennifer (Brent) Baxter of Payson

He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; and his sisters: Ellen Christensen, Karen Coleman, and Cheryl Sue Crane. He was preceded in death by his wife Georgena; parents; sister, Marilyn Rasmussen; and brother William Crane.

The family would like to thank Dr. West and the Intermountain hospice team for their loving care of our dad.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Salina Stake Center, with a viewing from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow in the Salina Pioneer Cemetery with military honors. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook www.maglebymortuary.com