- Date Of Birth: May 21, 1938
- Date Of Death: October 28, 2015
- State: Arizona
James D. Cremeans also known as “Jimmy Don” by family and friends went home to be with the Lord on October 28, 2015 at the age of 77. He is left behind by his beloved wife of 55 years as well as three loving children and four precious grandchildren.
He was born on May 21, 1938 in Huntington, WV and later moved with his family to Rutland, OH. Jim was one of 12 children born into a family of coal miners. As a young man he worked many odd jobs including driving a coal truck down the Appalachian Mountains. By high school Jim was a star running back and honor student as well as excelling in other sports. His talent in football made him a stand out athlete and earned him the nickname “Mr. Football”. Eventually he was awarded college football scholarships where he played for the Miami Hurricanes and West Virginia University. After suffering some injuries he went on to graduate from Heidelberg University where he received his B.S. in Economics.
From there, he worked as a sixth grade teacher at the same school as his sweetheart and future wife, Diane. At this time, Jim developed an avid interest in fitness and bodybuilding and achieved the title of Mr. Florida.
Jim moved to Scottsdale, AZ in 1973 with his family. His professional career began as an accountant with General Motors. His passion for success then led him to be involved in the “Dare to be Great” motivational program where he presented seminars to inspire others to reach their highest potential. From here, Jim launched a career in the Life Insurance Industry and became one of the first designees of the now coveted Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. He then went on attain a place in President’s Cabinet, John Hancock’s celebration of its top agents, and eventually on to their Hall of Fame rewarding again their top agents. But Jim didn’t stop there with professional achievements. He attained the most highly distinguished position within the Life Insurance Industry, earning a seat in the Million Dollar Roundtable, an exclusive club for top producing insurance agents. Jim was one of the top certified financial planners in the country.
Being a type A personality he worked up until the day he died. His expertise and depth of knowledge in the life insurance industry and estate planning also led to a passion to become politically active. He worked with law makers around the country to write and challenge legislation he knew would have an impact on his fellow Americans.
Near the end of his life, he faithfully and selflessly served and cared for his wife of 55 years who has advanced Alzheimer’s. Never complaining and always loving.
Because of his humble beginnings, Jim had incredible compassion and love for all those around him. Born out of a deep faith in the Lord, Jim was a devout Christian and always willing to give a helping hand wherever and whenever needed. He left a legacy of love with his kindness, gentleness, and generosity. He is and always will be sorely missed by us all.
Jim is survived by his Wife, Diane, two Sons Todd (Judy) Cremeans and Jamie (Tricia) Cremeans, Daughter Brigitte (Robert preceded) Targosz, four Grandsons Jamison, Carter, Shaw, and Sloan Cremeans. He is preceded in death by his Mother Iva Cremeans and Father June Cremeans, Brother Jay J. Cremeans, and Brother Roy Cremeans and Sister Phyllis (Jim preceded) Spangler. He is survived by Brothers Victor (Marge) Cremeans, Gary Cremeans, and sisters Glenna (Richard preceded)Fetty, Alice(Lewis preceded)Kennedy, Joanne (Harold) Smith, Zelma (Wendell) Kaylor, Leoma (Marty) Woulette and Karen (Richard) Gilkey and Sister-in-Law Jane Cremeans and several Nieces and Nephews.
