James Dewey Crist, 62, of Morocco died at 1:36 a.m. Friday, February 14, 2014 at St. Francis Hospital in Indianapolis following an extended illness.

He was born February 15, 1951 at Mishawaka, IN the son of Charles William and Irma Lee (Prather) Crist.

Jim was a 1969 graduate of North Vermillion High School, 1974 graduate of Indiana State University, and received his Masters from DePauw University.

He retired from teaching in June 2013 after 39 years, last being employed at North Newton Community Schools as a teacher and coach since 1983. He was the director of Pride Alternative School the last 14 years. He previously taught at Greencastle School Corp., Delphi Community School Corp. and Kouts School Corp. He assisted with basketball program and summer camps at St. Joseph College for several years. He was awarded Crystal Bell Teacher of the year in 2003 and Teacher of the Year at North Newton in 2010.

His memberships included Rileysburg Church, Indiana State Teachers Association and Sons of American Legion.

Jim is survived by his mother of Covington; 2 sisters Joyce M. (Ken) Olsen of Attica, and Lynn K. Crist of Indianapolis; 2 nephews, Kevin (Adrianne) Olsen of Noblesville, and Keith (Suzanne) Olsen of Avon, and 2 great-nieces, Avery and Audrey Olsen. Also surviving is a special friend and colleague, Sandy (Dan) Helton of Fair Oaks. His father preceded him in death.

Visitation will be 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, February 16, 2014 at Shelby Funeral Home, 622 Third Street, Covington. Memorial services will follow at 5:00 p. m. with Rev. Wayne Williams officiating. Cremation afterward with burial in Hopewell Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials may be given to The Pet Shelter in your area, Newton County Community Foundation, or a memorial of your choice. Condolences to the family: www.shelbyfuneralhome.com.