James “Jim” Cranford, or Captain Jim Morgan to his many fans and listeners, was a beloved radio / TV personality in the area. After broadcasting school, Jim worked at several radio stations in the DFW Texas area. He was then offered a position at KCKL Radio in Athens, Texas. Dee was listening to KCKL and heard Jim’s voice, she called the radio station and requested that Jim pick a song for her. Jim picked “I’m in a Hurry (And I Don’t Know Why)” by Alabama. They talked for several minutes until Jim had to do the news, he made a point to ask Dee to call him back. They met for their first date at a filling station. Dee took her daughter Amanda with her when she asked Amanda what she thought Amanda said he talks too much but it that’s what you like. Apparently is was fine for Dee, Jim said Dee stole his heart. They were married May 17, 2003.
Jim became the Program Director and on-air personality for KINY radio in Juneau, Alaska, he was also a TV personality for KATH-DL. Jim and Dee loved Alaska and lived there for 7 years before deciding to return to the lower 48 to be closer to family. It was at this time that Jim and Dee relocated to Jacksonville, Alabama, and Jim became Captain Jim Morgan at WCKA Alabama 810. He worked at a multitude of positions but is probably best known for his drive time shows and as a friend to all callers at Trade Line.
Jim loved his family with all his heart he also loved God and always tried to be a good Christian man. Jim was a friend to all and will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Jim is survived by his wife, Frances “Dee” Cranford; daughters, Tamer Ward, Frances Diane Cranford, Misty Layton, Melissa (Michael) Brooks, Tammy Layton, Amanda (John) Simmons, Wendy Layton; son, Jeremy (Shandi) Howell; parents, Jimmie (Robbyn) Cranford and Donna (Johnny) Morris; siblings, William Kenneth Cranford and Thomas Wayne Cranford; grandchildren, the light of his life Heaven, Amy, Haley, Nathan, Ptolemy, Jaxson and Riley; aunts, Janice Cranford and Nancy Cranford; uncles, Dennis (Donna) Chick and Edward (Patty) Chick; and a great number of cousins, as well as other family both by blood and love.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Jacksonville Church of God, 821 Francis Street W., Jacksonville, AL 36265. Bro. David Daniels will officiate.
