Welcome to Cream Family Legacy

Joseph’s story began as the son of Antonio Crime, and a Danish Mother on a fruit farm in Estate Dorothea, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Born in Denmark, Joseph was brought to St. Thomas when he was three years old. He lived there until his father died when he was eleven years old. Due to the mistreatment from his stepmother and half-brothers because of his race, he stowed away on a ship, launching a life of global travel, and culinary mastery.

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While sailing around the world in and out of different harbors, Joseph went from being a cook’s apprentice to the ship’s chef. Joseph eventually made his way to New Jersey and met Edna Amos. Joseph and Edna were married on June 4th, 1909 in the Homestead section of Pennsauken.

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This was the beginning of their family – their legacy. Edna and Joseph had twelve children: six sons and six daughters. A major turning point in Joseph’s life was when he received his “Certificate of Naturalization” around 1920. A “Certificate of Naturalization” is a document that serves as proof of U.S. citizenship for individuals who have become citizens through the process of naturalization. Joseph spoke seven languages fluently, and he took great pride in being an American citizen. 

 

Joseph was a high-ranking Mason, a Lodge secretary, and a man of principle. He lived the Masonic Creed with integrity, read voraciously, and carried himself with quiet dignity. Mild-mannered and low-key, he stood firm when wronged; yet always returned to gentleness. He loved his family fiercely. He cooked for them with joy—so much so that Edna never had to cook until after his passing. He sparred playfully with his sons and saw greatness in them long before the world did.  “Edna,” he’d say, “mark my words—someday that boy will be Heavyweight Champion of the World!”

 

 

A Father Remembered

Joseph walked humbly, loved his family wholeheartedly, and lived with quiet purpose. He was young in spirit and gentle in nature. Joseph was soft-spoken, deeply humane, and unwavering in his devotion to God and his family. His children cherished him for his understanding heart and steady encouragement. He did not seek attention, yet his presence was deeply felt. Joseph led with integrity, served with dignity, and loved without reservation. His sons, Joe and Arnold, said it best: “He was the greatest man we will ever know.”

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Edna resided in the Homestead section of Pennsauken her entire life; her legacy found no fixed address. She was a quiet force: faithful, wise, and unwavering. A pillar in her community, a nurturer of hearts, and a steady hand in times of need. Edna walked with grace and served with joy. She taught by example, prayed with conviction, and loved unconditionally. Her home was a haven, and her presence was a blessing. Edna sowed seeds of kindness that grew into gardens of hope. Her wisdom poured into generations who now carry her light. Her legacy is not written in stone, but in the hearts of those she touched—and in the quiet echoes of a life well-lived.

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“Born in Pennsauken. Lived in Pennsauken. Died in Pennsauken.” This simplicity echoes the quiet dignity of a life rooted in one place—but it doesn’t capture the fullness of Edna’s story. Just as Emily Dickinson’s life was far richer than her epitaph suggests, Edna’s legacy surely extends beyond geography.

 

 

A Mother Remembered

Edna was physically and spiritually beautiful, and deeply devoted to God and family. She had a twinkle in her eye, a sense of humor, and a touch of silliness. Edna rode bikes with her children, played games, and teased her grandson Bozo with playful jokes.

 

After Joseph’s passing, Edna worked “Day’s Work” and spent her earnings on dresses for her granddaughters. With her widow’s check, Edna made the first weeks of each month feel like royalty. New clothes, multiple entrees at meals, and gifts like a watch, and a diamond ring at graduation. Her generosity was boundless, even when resources were scarce.

 

Edna was a devoted member of Asbury Church in Merchantville, active in the Willing Workers, and a staunch PTA supporter. Sunday mornings began with prayer, and piano hymns before breakfast. Sunday School was a must. Her faith shaped a joyful childhood and a strong Christian foundation.