On Wednesday, October 28, John Joseph Crane, 73, of Newtown, died in his home on Hanover Road. His family and loved ones are comforted to know that his passing, while unexpected, was peaceful.

Jay, as he was lovingly known, was preceded in death by his father, John Crane, and his mother, Leona Crane.

He has left behind his adored wife of 50 years, Judy (Mangold) Crane; his four children and their families, David Crane and three grand cats, Becky Crane and partner Andy, and their children Hazel, Max, and Rowan, Kevin Crane and wife Vanessa, and their children Rhodes and Violet, and Jayme (Crane) Miller and husband Ken, and their children Madyson, Annabelle, Savannah, and McKenna; as well as his brothers Steve Crane, Randy Crane, and sister Jacquie (Crane) Liming.

Beyond those named here is a vast village of folks who loved him dearly and were honored to know him.

Jay was born in Stamford, Conn., on May 30, 1953. His first job was at a lumber yard at age 15, and for the next 54 years he worked as a carpenter contractor, eventually founding J. Crane Construction. He was deeply admired by his clients and collaborators. He built his home of 45 years with his own hands.

He will be remembered as a man who worked tirelessly without complaint, and who brought love, light, and laughter into every space he occupied. He raised his family in a spirit of goodwill and simplicity, and held fast his devotion to optimism and delight. He earned a deep admiration and reverence from all lucky enough to be in his life. To know him, was to love him.

Jay was a lover of musicals, and crazy socks. It was commonly known that he “still didn’t know what he was going to be when he grew up.” In honor of Jay, may we all be reminded that life is good, and of course, to believe in Santa Claus.

Until we meet again.

There will be a celebration of Jay’s life in the spring.

The Newtown Bee November 13, 2026