Jim Joseph Crawford was born and raised in Winfield. While playing Center for his football team under the direction of his mentor Coach Bob Anderson, the team placed second in the State in 1952. He was also as active member of the baseball and basketball teams. Jim earned a BS Degree in Physical Education and Social Studies from West Virgiuia State College while playing both football and golf. In 1973, Jim earned his Master's Degree in Education from West Virginia University.

His first teaching job was in a one room school in Putnam County. In 1962, Jim was hired for a teaching position at St. Albans High School. Coach Sam LeRose gave him his start in his illustrious career as an Assistant Football Coach. While continuing his career at St Albans, Jim coached Golf, Wrestling for 30 years and Girls Track. The St. Albans Girls Track Team won the State Championship in 1975. For many years, Jim slso worked at St. Albans as the Athletic Director.

Over the course of his career, Jim has officiated Football and Wrestling. For several years, he has been the Director of the Gazette Relays Track Meet held at Laidley Field in Charleston. In 1975, Jim was awarded The West Virginia Sports Writers Association Recognition Award for the 1975 Girls Track Champions.

After retiring in 1999, Jim decided to run for the Kanawha County Board of Education. Having won in 2000, he has been and still is a member and has served as President on two occasions. Also Jim has served on the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission, been President of the West Virginia School Board Association, President of the National Federation of Secondary Schools urban Districts and presently a member of the Board of Directors of the Childhood Language Disorders Center in Chareston, WV for Pre-School and Elementary Students.

Jim and his loving wife, Marilyn reside in St. Albans. They are the proud parents of their son Jim, and his wife, Marilyn.