A Legacy of Leadership: Harry L. Crisp II named ‘First Citizen’
By Bill Swinford
Swinford Publications
MARION – A figure long associated with civic leadership and business success in Marion has received one of the city’s most prestigious honors.
Harry L. Crisp II, Chairman and CEO of Pepsi MidAmerica, has been named Marion’s “First Citizen,” a title that recognizes his lifelong contributions to the region. When asked about the accolade in his office last week, Crisp responded with characteristic humor.
“I guess it feels old,” he said, laughing. Crisp’s family business went into the soft drink business the same year he was born, 1935. He will turn 90 this November 21.
“It’s quite an honor and one that’s very much appreciated. I take it not only as an honor to me but also our employees and all the people who have worked together with me for so many years,” he added.
Honored by City and State
Mayor Mike Absher issued a proclamation in May recognizing Crisp for “significant contributions across various fields, including business, education, military service and civic engagement.” The proclamation celebrated Crisp’s “exceptional service, leadership and dedication to our community.”
A ceremony was held on June 2 to formally bestow the honor. The following day, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker echoed the local recognition with a State Proclamation.
“There are probably a handful of people in the history of our 185 years as a city who have made an impact that will last generations, and Mr. Crisp is one of those few,” Absher told Swinford Publications. “As he approaches his 90th birthday, I thought it was important to honor that and express our gratitude for all he has done.”
A Family Legacy of Civic Engagement
Crisp’s entrepreneurial roots trace back to his father, Harry L. Crisp Sr., who originally sold Pepsi out of the back of poultry trucks while trying to gain traction in the egg and chicken business. That endeavor grew into what became Pepsi MidAmerica. Harry Sr. also served as Marion’s mayor for three terms during the 1930s and ’40s.
Harry II vividly recalls moments from his early life during World War II.
“I was so young but it was so embedded in my mind because such important things were happening,” he said. “I used to go with (my father) to the scrap drives and the Victory Gardens.”
Later, he followed a path of service himself by joining the United States Marine Corps, a tradition that has since extended to both his son and grandson.
Educational and Civic Stewardship
After returning home, Crisp took on more responsibility in the family business and increasingly became a regional leader. He was a founding trustee of John A. Logan College and eventually chaired the Illinois Community College System—an experience he described as “one of the most fun ‘outside jobs’ I ever had.”
Crisp’s educational leadership extended to Southern Illinois University (SIU), Eastern Illinois University (EIU), Murray State University, and the University of Tennessee, where he played significant roles.
In political and civic spheres, he has been a delegate to the Republican National Convention and a member of the National Republican Senate Inner Circle. His honors include being named an Illinois Lincoln Laureate, a Kentucky Colonel, and a Duke of Paducah.
For over 30 years, he served on the Board of Directors at the Bank of Marion, including time as Chairman. A City of Marion press release noted his influence in that role, saying it was “a crucial role in guiding the financial development and sustainability of our local community.”
Business Acumen and Community Support
With his late wife Rosemary—his partner of 47 years—Crisp generously supported many regional causes. Their philanthropy has led to the Crisp name being memorialized on several local buildings, parks, and recreational facilities.
Under his stewardship, Pepsi MidAmerica—once known as Marion Pepsi—has grown into a regional powerhouse, serving as a key employer and economic engine. Crisp’s business ventures have expanded to include Crisp Container Company, Crisp Realty, and Crisp Investments. His impact on the industry was recognized with induction into the Beverage World Soft Drink Hall of Fame.
The business remains a family operation, with his son-in-law Keith Dickens now serving as President and grandson Harrison Dickens as Vice President of Operations.
“It’s been a labor of love,” said Crisp. “We are so blessed … to have the opportunities so much of the world doesn’t have.”
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A full video interview with Harry L. Crisp II is available on the Swinford Media Group YouTube channel:
Article published by Swinford Media Group