Palestine, Texas - James Clyde Crum, age 87, passed away July 16, 2025. Born October 17, 1937, to Nellie Mae and Isaac Lee Crum in Palestine, Texas. Clyde graduated from Corsicana High School and furthered his college education and various classes and seminars to become self employed.

He was a self made business man through and through. Beginning at the age of 13, he bought his first service station and owned 18 at one time. His calling was as a Real Estate Appraiser, Real Estate Investor, author and motivational speaker. He traveled extensively to perform appraisals and speak at many civic organizations. He owned over 30 businesses and employed hundreds over the years. Clyde appeared on many TV and radio programs promoting investing in real estate, Business Development and motivational topics. He was especially thrilled when asked to present a workshop, speaking at the National Speakers Association Convention.

His band "Clyde Crum and the Cookies" was a regular at one of his three night clubs he owned. He was selected by the Southland corporation to be the band to open every new 7-11 Convenience Stores and then changed the band's name to "Clyde Crum and the Slurpees". His Real Estate Investing began in the 80's and focused in the beginning on Residential homes, later investing in land and commercial properties. He always promoted passive income and proved that real estate was his ticket. He passively retired back to his family roots in Palestine, Texas. His motivation, writing, teaching, experience, sharing and caring made a difference in so many people's lives.

Clyde was preceded in death by his parents and grandchild, Markus Contreras. He is survived by his brother, Don Crum; sisters, Doris Glasgow and Virginia Martin; his children: (two sons), Cary Crum (girlfriend Reana Williams) and Cody Crum; and (two daughters), Christia Lee, and Cynthia Owen (husband Russell Owen); grandchildren: Carissa Crum, Mikael Contreras, McKayla Tuck (husband Eric), McKenna Neal, Zackary Owen, Emily Page (husband Tommy), Nickolas Owen, Samuel Owen; great- grandchild, Eden Neal; as well as many nieces and nephews.

The Celebration of life services will be held at Herrington / Land of Memory Funeral Home, 3434 South Loop 256, Palestine, on Sunday July 20th at 2PM, Viewing at 1 PM, with a private family graveside prayer after service.

View online: www.herringtonfuneral.com