1 Photo
James C. McCrea of East Hampton died at home on November 6. He was 93.
Mr. McCrea was born on September 12, 1920, in Peoria, Illinois. He and his wife, Ruth, recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. He attended the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, and served in the Merchant Marine in World War II. Mr. McCrea was a typographer and book designer who worked with all the major New York publishing houses. He collaborated with his wife on four children’s books she wrote and illustrated, which were published by Atheneum Books. He also taught typography at The Cooper Union in New York City for 10 years.
Mr. McCrea was a member of The Tuesday Club and had been active in the East Hampton Historical Society in years past. Since 1980, he and his wife had been the proud stewards of their historic house on Main Street.
Survivors said Mr. McCrea will be remembered for his kind and gracious nature, his lifelong curiosity and his interest in the affairs of the world.
In addition to his wife, Ruth, Mr. McCrea is survived by a brother, John T. McCrea of Florida; a son, James C. McCrea III and wife Miriam of Connecticut; two daughters, Ruth D. McCrea of East Hampton and Claire D. McCrea of Southampton; three granddaughters, Heather J. McCrea, Gillian M. Lizars and Allison M. Lizars, all of New York City; and numerous nieces and nephews.
At his request, services and interment will be private.
Memorial donations may be made to East Hampton Meals on Wheels, 33-37 Newtown Lane, East Hampton, NY 11937, or the East Hampton Historical Society, www.easthamptonhistory.org.
on Nov 11, 2013