James Crawford Lube

James Crawford "Jim" Lube
August 6, 1942 - March 8, 2026

Our dad, brother, grandpa, and best friend, James Crawford "Jim" Lube, passed away on March 8, 2026 at the age of 83, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jim was born in Vernal on August 6, 1942, to Amy MacKnight and James Henry Lube, weighing only 3 pounds. He was the oldest of four children. Jim loved to share stories about his childhood adventures, especially the time he spent at the homestead with his great-grandmother, Josie Morris, who played an important role in his early life. Some of his favorite memories were sleeping out on the deck of Granny Josie's cabin under the wide open sky. Those early days at the homestead helped shape the kind, loyal, and family-centered man he would become.

Jim was known throughout the community for his hard work and his love of music. He worked for Coca-Cola and later spent many years in the oil field as a salesman for IMI and CSI. While he worked hard during the day, his true passion came alive at night through music.

For 45 years, Jim was the lead bass player and singer for The Country Gentlemen, playing at countless weddings, funerals, and many Friday and Saturday nights in honky-tonks throughout Vernal. He loved country music and cherished the friendships he built over decades of playing with his bandmates and friends. Music was not just something Jim did - it was part of who he was.

Jim also loved a good card game and had a special talent for poker. He enjoyed gambling and was known for being quite good at it, often sharing his winnings with JoeAnn and Jamie. He loved golfing as well and took great pride in making custom golf clubs for many of his friends.

Around the family table, Jim was a fierce Monopoly competitor. Somehow, he always managed to land Park Place and Boardwalk first, quickly building his empire while the rest of the family tried their best to stay in the game.

Above all, Jim loved his family deeply. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, JoeAnn (Walker) Lube; his two sons, Troy (Ramona) Harris and Cory (Annette) Harris; and his "darling sweetheart daughter," as he always lovingly called her, Jamie (Carson) Chynoweth.

He is also survived by his brothers, Joe & John Lube; seven grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his stories, humor, and love. Jim shared a particularly special bond with his grandson Brennen, who loved him very much.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Tom Lube; and his son Danny Joe Harris.

Per Jim's request, there will be no viewing or funeral services. A graveside service will be planned at a later date.

We like to think that somewhere tonight, Jim is playing in a small honky-tonk singing old western songs, smiling as he performs with Mark, Burt, Gib, Tex and Mike.

Service will be held at a later date.