James "Jim" Aubrey Croson's Obituary
James Aubrey "Jim" Croson, a beloved figure in the Mount Dora community, passed away on May 18, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Columbus, Ohio, Jim made a lasting impact through his business ventures, philanthropy, community and church involvement.
As an Army Veteran, Jim was the proud founder and owner of JA Croson & Company, a prominent commercial plumbing and HVAC firm in Florida. His dedication to excellence and service left an indelible mark on the industry. Jim's successful Supreme Court decision in Croson v. City of Richmond had far-reaching implications in his fight for equal opportunity and fairness in contracting, and left an indelible footprint on legal history. His family carry on his legacy of excellence and hard work to this day. As the owner of Lake Receptions, Jim provided a welcoming space for countless city events and celebrations. As a Past President of the Rotary, and a Paul Harris Fellow awardee, his high energy efforts left a legacy of positive change. As a proud member of the Mt. Dora Yacht Club, Jim enjoyed laughter, Lake Dora stories and fellowship.
His commitment to social welfare extended beyond business. Jim played a pivotal role in establishing St. Luke's Medical & Dental Clinic, ensuring free healthcare for those most in need. He donated the building to the Lake Cares Food Pantry, ensuring that hundreds of local families continue to have access to essential resources. Jim's faith filled compassion led him to gift a building to the Impacting Word Church, to encourage diverse interfaith harmony. When the Synagogue in Mount Dora suffered fire damage, Jim showed up with trucks, tools and tenacity, and enough heart to power a city block. Jim's philanthropic spirit extended beyond Florida. He helped re-build the Ohio State football stadium. Jim’s energy lives on in every nail, every pipe, and every roar from the Ohio State “Shoe.”
His dedication to his faith and to his church led him to help expand the Catholic Foundation of Central Florida, fostering spiritual growth in all nine counties. As an active member of the Legatus Catholic CEO Ambassador group, and a Fourth degree Knight of Columbus member, Jim exemplified service above self, working tirelessly to improve the lives of others. His tenacious efforts earned him the Papal Ecclesiastic Medal of Honor from Pope Francis for exceptional humanitarian service.
James Aubrey "Jim" Croson will be remembered as a compassionate, high energy and community minded individual, who touched countless lives through his faith filled example. His legacy lives on through the organizations he supported, and the hearts he touched. He is survived by his wife Karen, and her sons Jordan and Jory, and by his seven children: James Michael, David, Julie, Thomas, Laura, Joseph, Paul and their spouses, along with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, and his sister Patricia Brown. Jim is our loss and Heaven’s gain, may he rest in peace.
A visitation and Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday May 29, 2025 from 5pm-7pm in the Hamlin and Hilbish Chapel at 326 E. Orange Ave, Eustis FL 32726. A memorial Mass will be held on Thursday June 5, 2025, at 9am, with placement for family to follow, in the St. Patrick’s Cemetery, next to his deceased wife, Joann, and a lunch Reception for all attendees.
For those unable to attend we will be livestreaming a portion of the Celebration of Life Service. At 5 PM click the link below to be able to view during or after the service.
https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/northstar/112918/hash:97AE5DBEBE28C0E6
Parking for Hamlin & Hilbish will be in the parking lot across the street next to Lake Eustis Christian Church. There will be cones, a sign, and possible police assistance with crossing. For those unable to walk, or needing additional assistance there is parking in the back of the building.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared on the tribute wall.
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