Jim Crook

Jim Cook Crook, 70, of Axtell, passed away peacefully Monday, August 17, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones, following many long and courageous battles over the years.

Jim was born September 9, 1955, in Waco, to Coke and Mary Crook. He was raised and educated in Waco and graduated from Richfield High School in 1974. Throughout most of his life, Jim worked as a contractor and entrepreneur in the Waco area. He was a hardworking man who took pride in what he did and in the life, he built for himself and those he loved.

In 1992, Jim met the love of his life, Joanne Yezzi. From that day forward, they spent the rest of their lives together and had a lifetime of fun. Just a short year ago, they worked to make their dream of building their forever home in the peaceful countryside of Axtell come true; a place where they could enjoy the life they had created and looked forward to many more good times and memories.

Jimmy had one younger brother, Randy, and they shared an undying brotherly bond. They adored one another — most of the time unless Jimmy was mad at Randy for something — but their relationship remained filled with a lot of love and laughter, and a lifelong connection only brothers can share. Randy was not only Jimmy's brother, but a treasured part of his life, and he took great care of Jimmy in whatever he needed. Three dozen breakfast tacos or 65 sliders for the entire hospital staff; Randy would make it happen. Whatever Jimmy asked for, regardless!

Jimmy was a quiet-witted, loving, and kind person. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a way of bringing laughter to those around him. He loved his family and friends dearly and treasured the people who were a part of his life. He also loved his dog, Jax, who was a faithful and much-loved companion.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Coke and Mary Crook, sister-in-law Carla Cash, and many other relatives.

Jimmy is survived by the love of his life, Joanne Yezzi; stepson Jason Yezzi, wife Lori, and daughter Kara; one brother, Randy Crook and Cathy Restivo; many beloved family members and a host of friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Providence Ascension Dialysis Center, who were truly angels in disguise, the nursing and medical staff on the 3rd and 4th floors of Providence Ascension Medical Center for their compassionate care, kindness, and support during Jimmy's time there, and of course, the Providence Hospice team for their empathy and nurturing care during Jimmy’s final days. The family is deeply grateful for the comfort and care they provided to him and his loved ones.

Couldn’t have made it without their lifelong friends Joni Lindsay and Tanner, who were a constant in Jojo and Jimmy's lives throughout the years and always there whenever something was needed; a friend, love, support, or a helping hand. Their presence in Jimmy and Joanne's lives has meant more than words can say.

Jimmy leaves behind a legacy of memories filled with love, friendship, hard work, and lots of fun. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. One of a kind, and the honor was all yours if you knew him.

His journey has come to an end, but the love and memories he created will remain with us all until we see him again.

Rest easy, Jimmy. Fly high, good and faithful servant.

Pallbearers will be Xinia Garciapina, Jan Coleman, Rex Stem, Wayne Redding, Tommy Coskrey, Brian Bates, Randy Kemp, Kyle Wollard and Tanner Lindsey. Honorary pallbearers will be The Waco Goodfellas.

Celebration of Life & Service Information

A Celebration of a Wonderful Life Lived will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Wilkirson-Hatch- Bailey Funeral Home in Waco with Rodney Payne officiating. A reception will follow at Salty Dog.

Memorials can be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Waco Goodfellas in honor of Jimmy.

2 Timothy 4:7. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

I can no longer see you with my eyes, or touch you with my hands, but I will feel you in my heart forever.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Jim in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com