Graveside service for James Frederick Crowder, Jr. age 91 of New Orleans, LA., will be held Thursday, June 24, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery in Ruston, LA.  Rev. Frank Hughes of the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer will officiate under the directions of Kilpatrick Funeral Home of Ruston.

James was a businessman and entrepreneur for many years.  He passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2021 in New Orleans, LA.  Mr. Crowder was born March 3, 1930 in Ruston Louisiana and was the son of the late James Frederick Crowder and Frances Brooks Crowder of Ruston.

James is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Harriet Leake.  He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Haney Crowder of New Orleans, LA. Three children, Debra Crowder Green of Shreveport, LA., Rita Crowder Frizzell of Bossier City, LA., and James Steven Crowder of New Orleans, LA.  He has five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Mr. Crowder was a proud, generous, and kind man.  An entrepreneur, who came to New Orleans in the late 1970’s and was president and founder of Delta Com., Inc. which later became Delta Com Services and Delta Data, with locations in two states.  He took great pride in the creation and expansion of these businesses that was shared with family and employees.

Mr. Crowder was a collector of fine wines, which he shared enthusiastically with friends, family, and employees.  He often traveled to wine regions in California and France, beginning in the 1970’s.  Celebration of Life with wine, good food, conversation, family and friends gave his life meaning.

Mr. Crowder was a graduate of Louisiana Tech University with a BS in History and an avid reader of political history over the decades.  Past memberships in organizations included the Petroleum Club, Bienville Club, Shreveport Club, Board of Directors, Century Bank, and La Confrerie des Chevaliers du Tastevin of Shreveport, Louisiana. Mr. Crowder was a past member of St. Mark’s Cathedral, Trinity Episcopal Church, and Rayne Memorial Church.

The family wishes to thank the employees of Hospice Specialists of Louisiana and Best Care for the kindness and respect, and they demonstrated.

Pallbearers are Jeffrey R. Bruner, Larry G. Frizzell, M. Brandon Green, Kevin J. Gullatt, W.K. Hoffoss and Manuel J. Taormina.  Honorary Pallbearers are J. Patrick Leake, Richard H. Lucas, Kelly L. Meadows and Caleb A. Green.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.