James "Jim" Vernon Crook

            James “Jim” Vernon Crook, 64, passed away Thursday, May 12, 2022. Jim was born on September 23, 1957, and it is with heavy hearts that we announce his passing, following a brief and tragic illness.

            Jim was preceded in death by his father, the late Vernon Howard Crook. He is survived by his loving partner of 39 years, William David Cagle, of the home; his mother, Mary Ann Eplee Crook of Candler; brothers, Thomas Christopher Crook and wife Malia of Laurel Park, and Michael Edwin Crook and wife Lori of Asheville; a nephew, Michael Riley Crook, and a niece, Alexandria Crook Davis; two great nieces, Sophia and Addyson; and special friends, Jim and Kayla Duba of Brevard, Lynn Herrick of Hendersonville, and Marsha Kelso of Hendersonville.

            Jim had an insatiable zeal for life. He was an avid reader, and enjoyed gardening, cooking, crafting, music, and travel.

            He was a natural leader, caregiver, and teacher.

            He was a graduate of Enka High School in 1975, he completed his Associates degree in Applied Science from AB Technical Community College in 1980 and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Management/Health Administration from the University of North Carolina at Asheville in 1994.

            He had an expansive career in healthcare. He began as a Laboratory Supervisor at St. Joseph’s Urgent Care, Inc. from 1980-1985, at which point he served as a Clinical Supervisor at St. Joseph’s Urgent Care until 1987. He then went on to fill the role for them of Assistant Director until 1991. At this time, he became their Director of Industrial Health Department & Health Designs until 1992. From 1992-1995 he worked PRN as a Laboratory Technician while continuing his studies. After graduating from UNCA, he became the Financial Case Manager/Collections Supervisor for visiting health professionals until 1997, at which point he worked as Practice Manager for Asheville Family Medicine until 2002. He then went to Allergy Partners as Regional Operations Manager until he retired in 2017.

            Jim also gave back to his communities through service and support.

            Jim resided in the Laurel Park Community from 1983-2013, where he made numerous friends and lifelong relationships. He was a proud supporter of Flat Rock Play House and a member of Saint James Episcopal Church. He then moved to the Crowfields Community where he lived until present. There he served on boards and committees and made more valuable relationships.

            He also served as a Docent at Asheville Art Museum, which he loved.

            His life was both productive and playful. He will be missed by all who had the privilege to call him friend and will never be forgotten. He lived fully and loved completely.

            In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Crowfields Common Garden/James Crook Memorial (c/o Crowfields Condominiums, 1745 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville, NC 28803) or leave donations in the drop box by the clubhouse, or donate to your favorite charity.

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