Jim Croyle. (Courtesy photo)
James Lee Croyle Sr., died Dec. 19, 2025, in his home, surrounded by family.
Born in East Liverpool, Ohio, on Oct. 11, 1941, he possessed a zest for life that served him well in all his endeavors.
Jim was a modern-day Renaissance man who wore many hats—he served in the Marine Corps following graduation from high school, worked in a steel mill in Pennsylvania, and thanks to the GI Bill received an undergraduate degree from UC-Irvine. He continued his education, earning a doctorate from Harvard University (government) and then teaching political science at Washington University in St. Louis. Jim left academia to work for the Bank of New England in Boston where he started as a trainee and eventually led the Project Finance Group. In 1989, he founded SCS Energy, along with two partners. One of SCS’s major projects was Astoria Energy, a true example of his tenacity, entrepreneurial spirit, and willingness to pursue a challenge.
While Jim was a dedicated professional, he cultivated a life filled with joy through his diverse passions—gardening, deep-sea fishing in Nantucket, listening to his vinyl jazz record collection, reading mysteries, scouting art galleries for works that caught his fancy, and cooking elaborate meals for family and friends. Above all else, Jim loved his family and supported them 100% in all their endeavors.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Marcia; 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 predeceased by his parents, Robert and Ora Croyle, and by Cindy Hall, his sister.
Jim will be buried at a private, family service in Harvard, where he resided for 40 years. His family will hold a Celebration of Life in May when his gardens are in full bloom. Donations in his memory may be sent to the Harvard Public Library, www.harvardpubliclibrary.org.