Crystal's Legacy of Love and Care

Crystal Faith James

September 1, 1980 – June 30, 2025.

Born on September 1, 1980, to Robin Howlett and John Sutherland, Crystal was the first of her siblings and a natural caregiver from a young age. She grew up in Gloucester, where she helped raise her younger siblings, all while attending school and working part-time jobs.

Though Crystal faced many challenges early in life, her strength and resilience never wavered. At just 17 years old, she welcomed her first daughter, Natalia, and soon after, her second daughter, Cassandra. Later, she welcomed her son Caleb and devoted herself fully to motherhood. As a stay-at-home mom, Crystal worked tirelessly to provide love, stability, and support to her family, always putting others’ needs above her own.

Crystal’s journey took a beautiful turn when she began working at a local newspaper company, where she met the love of her life, Michael James. Along with his daughter Gabriella, they built a strong and loving blended family and married soon after. Over the course of their 13-year marriage, they welcomed two more children, Leah and Adam, completing a family of eight bound by love, laughter, and deep connection.

Never one to stop growing, Crystal went back to school and became a licensed massage therapist. During this time, she also worked part-time as a companion and HR representative for individuals with brain injuries, offering compassion and support to those who needed it most.

Crystal had a joyful spirit and a wide array of hobbies. She loved family gatherings, trips to the mall and nail salon with her daughters, beach days, camping adventures, and theme parks. A creative soul, she enjoyed crafting with her cricut. She found peace in her garden.

Crystal’s heart was unmatched—fiercely loving, endlessly compassionate, and deeply selfless. She carried the weight of others’ burdens, always striving to be the strong foundation for her family. Even in the face of exhaustion, she gave her all—raising her children and helping care for her grandchildren with unshakable devotion.

Crystal leaves behind a legacy of love that will never fade. She is survived by her beloved husband, Michael James; her mother Robin and father John; her siblings Renae, Harley, Vanessa, Naomi, and Justin; her children Natalia, Cassandra, Caleb, Gabriella, Leah, and Adam; and her cherished grandchildren Lucy, Oliver, and Emily. She is also lovingly remembered by her aunts and uncles: Jack, Heidi, Kim, Kelly, Tracy, Wendi, Donna, Diane, Denise.

Crystal’s light and love will continue to shine through those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be always remembered.