Jim Croce’s wife, Ingrid Croce, continued to manage his estate and keep his legacy alive after his death. She also pursued a career as a singer-songwriter, restaurateur, and author.
Jim Croce, a renowned American folk and rock singer-songwriter, tragically died in a plane crash on September 20, 1973. His wife, Ingrid Croce, whom he had married in 1966, was left to cope with the loss of her husband and the challenge of raising their infant son, Adrian James Croce, who was born in 1971.
Ingrid, who had performed with Jim prior to his solo career taking off, found herself in the position of managing Jim’s music rights and legacy. She worked diligently to ensure that his music continued to be heard and appreciated by new generations of fans. Ingrid also released several albums of her own, drawing from her experiences and musical talents.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Ingrid Croce became a successful restaurateur. She opened Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar in San Diego, California, in 1985, which became a popular spot for live music and dining. The restaurant was a tribute to Jim’s memory and served as a gathering place for his fans and music lovers.
Ingrid has also co-authored a number of books, including two about Jim Croce: “Time in a Bottle: Jim Croce’s Greatest Love Songs” and “I Got a Name: The Jim Croce Story.” These works provide insight into Jim’s life, their relationship, and his musical career.
Throughout the years, Ingrid Croce has been a dedicated steward of Jim’s music and memory, ensuring that his songs, such as “Time in a Bottle,” “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” and “Operator,” remain an enduring part of American music history. Her efforts have allowed Jim Croce’s music to continue to inspire and entertain long after his untimely passing.
