James Lee Croyle

James Lee Croyle, Sr., passed away on December 19, 2025, surrounded by family in his home in Harvard, Massachusetts. Born in East Liverpool, Ohio, on October 11, 1941, Jim was a force with whom to be reckoned. Always filled with a zest for life and a never-ending drive for success, his life journey was a testament to his intelligence, resolve, and tenacity.

Jim was a modern-day Renaissance man—he went from serving in the Marine Corps after high school to selling life insurance in California where he took advantage of the G.I Bill and graduated from UC-Irvine. He left California to attend Harvard University, earning a doctorate in government, and then taught political science at Washington University in St. Louis. He moved from academia in 1982 to the Bank of New England, starting as a trainee and eventually leading the Project Finance Group. In 1987, along with two partners, he founded SCS Energy, an energy development company. One of SCS’s major successes was the Astoria Energy project, a true example of his entrepreneurial spirit and his willingness to pursue a challenge.

While Jim was a dedicated professional, he cultivated a life filled with joy through his diverse passions. An avid gardener, he spent countless hours nurturing his wetland gardens and his indoor plants. His love for cooking often led him to craft bountiful meals in his home kitchen in Harvard and Nantucket for his family and friends. Jim was also a keen fisherman, a mystery book enthusiast, an art collector, and a lover of jazz. He never skipped a day without doing the New York Times Crossword and always had a humorous quip on the tip of his tongue. Yet, despite his manifold interests, what mattered most to Jim was his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Marcia, and his children Michelle Lyon (Jim), Jim Croyle, Jr. (Natasha), Stefanie Korepin (Serguei), Katie Croyle (Steve Hayward) and grandchildren Nicole Lyon, Alex Lyon, and Nina Korepin. He also leaves his sisters Linda Davis and Denise Schweinberg along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ora Croyle and Cindy Hall, his sister.

Jim will be buried at a private service at Bellevue Cemetery in Harvard, Massachusetts. 

As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we invite everyone to join us in remembering and celebrating Jim's extraordinary life. We encourage you to share your memories of Jim on his memorial page. Your stories will serve as a reminder of his vibrant life and indomitable spirit, keeping his memory alive in our hearts. His family will hold a large celebration of life next May when his garden is in full bloom.

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com