1957
2017
There are a few things in life you just don't ever want to do; grab a toy dinosaur out of a dirty toilet, eat a cheerio out of a child's diaper, and write the obituary of the man who made me who I am today. This past weekend, we were blessed with a weekend at the beach, a beach trip full of memories, of fun, of laugher, and of Dad reeling in a "monster fish" as described by his favorite grandchildren (Osley -5; Shepherd – 2; Crawford – 2; and Knox – 3 months). Legacy is a hard subject to comprehend, however, its magnitude is apparent, once someone is gone. The Legacy that my dad leaves in this world is evident today in how I live my life, how my sister (Janna Crawford Bass) lives her life, and how his "bride" (Teresa Crawford) will continue to live hers. We have been blessed with countless memories, all of which will forever bring a smile. Memories include hiking, fishing, duck blinds, ice skating, lake trips, ballgames, and folding socks on Sundays while watching a football game. Memories that I will continue to pass down to my children as I emulate the man who raised me and taught me to be the man I am today.
Siblings Joe (Phyllis), Jeff (Sylvia), and Jane (Louis) are also saddened. I am thankful that they too can recount numerous funny stories of younger years in Louisiana where dad loved the woods, golf, and almost anything that took him outdoors.
His Legacy will continue and his faith will continue to transcend generations as I know my wife (Casey Crawford) and I, my sister and her husband (Tyler Bass), and his "Bride" will ALL see him again one day in Heaven. I bet his mom and dad (Neet and Pep Crawford) are all smiles at the reunion that has taken place.
A celebration of my dad's life will be on Monday, October 23, 2017 at 2pm in the Salem Baptist Church Worship Center. A time to visit with the family and enjoy a "sweet treat" will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. (Yes, my dad loved desserts.)
My dad had a servant heart; therefore, in lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory are requested to the Building Fund at Salem Baptist Church in Apex, NC or to the NC Baptist Men Disaster Relief fund.
Cancer did not win but Jesus did. My dad has been healed and a faithful servant has joined the Kingdom. I hope they enjoy splitting wood in Heaven.
Your Loving Son (on behalf of our entire Crawford family),
Kyle
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Apex Funeral Home.
October 29, 2017
Amy Baker and family
Prayers and much love goes out to you all. He was my favorite guide in journey and will be missed by all who knew him. God bless!!
October 27, 2017
Classmate
Bill Willis
John and I attend & graduated from Oakdale High School in Louisiana. He was a superb student, friend, and a fellow Boy Scout members. I shall treasure our high school days as he helped me realize that anyone can achieve goals with hard work, great study habits and believe in yourself. I look forward to the day that we will meet again & "talk about the ole days, our family and our grandchildren". My prayers are with the family as they grieve John's departure from this earth but remember, he shall always be with you!
October 25, 2017
Rob, Mimi, Rob Jr, Laura and Amy Lenfestey
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with Theresa and her loving family.
October 24, 2017
Friend
Ivy and Gary Bishop
We remember John with love. He was so very kind...and one of the folks at church who always spoke such kindness to me in the days before I received a bipolar diagnosis. I am eternally grateful to him for that gentle kindness that was so like Christ. Our hearts are sad, and yet we know we'll meet again. We're only separated for just a little while. Just a little while. We're lifting you up in prayer, Teresa...God has got your back...and your front...and your sides!
October 24, 2017
phyllis ehlers
I taught John when he was in the 8th grade. He was a nice young man even then. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this hard time.But, as Christians, we know he is in a better place. God bless all of you.
October 24, 2017
Mark McRae
I met John and Teresa when they were searching for a waterfront house on Lake Tillery. His faith in Jesus was evident from the beginning. He was a blast to work with and so much fun. Prayers for Teresa and the entire family.
October 24, 2017
Friend
Mark and Tena Beauchamp
Theresa, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
October 24, 2017
Charu Sethi
John was a wonderful colleague. I had an opportunity to work with him briefly on a project and he was always very helpful, prompt and really good at what he did. Really sad to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
October 23, 2017
Brian Gobert
My condolences and prayers go out othe family. I remember the younger days in Oakdale when John would teach me knew and exciting thing. Hopefully my old friend will get to replay the day he taught me how to shoot a bow and arrow. On my first attempt I shot across a ditch into the field. John was some kind of amazed I had shot the wing of a red bird by accident. So long my friend we will hunt together another day in heaven together.
October 23, 2017
Wayne and Cara Winstead
Wayne and I knew John many years ago when we were at Salem. We always thought so much of him. He had such a gentle spirit, kind and caring. Such a fine man who will be missed. Teresa you were truly blessed! Thinking and praying for you and your family.
October 23, 2017
Robert Chitty
I just heard of this, John was a special person, always with a smile, from special family with whom I am honored to have known and grown up with. Please know that you and all the family are in my thoughts and prayers.
October 23, 2017
John Eppinette
I was blessed to have known John while he was at Louisiana Tech in the late 70's. Baptist Student Union, flag football, golf, singing in a quartet, living next door in the dorm, living together for a summer, trip to Oakdale for squirrel hunting & Tech/USL football game, trip w/ Len Doughty to NC to visit/golf are many of the ways that we were connected. He was definitely one of the greatest people that I have ever known. Praying for God's comfort and strength for his family and friends.
October 23, 2017
Debbie McCuiston
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. It is hard to lose a father as I know first hand. But the memories and values they teach us will live on forever. May God Bless each of you.
October 23, 2017
Ed Brady
We are so sorry for you loss. John was a very special friend to us during our time in North Carolina and I think fondly of our time on the deacon board as well our times together at the men's golf retreat.
Ed Cheryl Alexys and Abigail Brady
October 23, 2017
Tommy Byrd
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
October 23, 2017
We are sorry for your loss and send our condolences.
Your neighbors across the creek,
The Powells
October 23, 2017
John was my first manager at IBM. I am so sorry for his family's loss, and happy that I was able to be a part of his life.
October 23, 2017
Allan Bennett
So sorry for for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for the family.
October 23, 2017
Terri Horsley
I am deeply saddened by this news. John was my first technical lead when I joined IBM in 1982. We were at an IBM work event and were picking at each other as we often did when someone asked, "Are you two married?" John replied, "Yes." I looked at him like he was crazy - then he said, "Not to each other, but, yes, we are married," That was John - funny, kind, amazing and he always beamed when he talked about "his bride" Teresa. He will be missed, but always remembered.
October 22, 2017
Ron & Rita Patterson
Kyle, we am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Your family is in our prayers.
October 22, 2017
John and Vicke Talbot
We were very saddened to hear of John's home going but also rejoicing that he is now in the presence of his Saviour, Jesus Christ. We had the privilege of working with John for about 3 years during Journey To Bethlehem. He was one of the guides and we were Amos and Ruth. What a time of fun and joy we had knowing that so many people were impacted by the message of Jesus Christ. John was,such an example of humility and his kindness and love for Jesus was such a testimony. Our love,and prayers are with you Theresa and your family.
October 22, 2017
Kimberly Craig
Teresa, we are so sorry to hear of John's passing. What a Godly man, and family, that we had the privilege to meet while we were in Apex. Prayers for your entire family.
October 22, 2017
Carole Patterson
John was an awesome member of Salem Baptist Church. Younger years he taught me sign language although I have difficulty remembering a lot of it. During recent years when I had brain surgery he was a great encourager as I struggled to walk again, get back to a normal life. He has been an encourager during most of my life at Salem while I've struggled to be a single parent. God has regained a wonderful member of Heaven and we miss him But he is out of pain now and someone I look forward to seeing again someday when I too get to Heaven Carole Patterson
October 22, 2017
Mark Howard
When I was a young man at Salem, I watched John hold the door open for Teresa. I took note. I saw him consistently show me how a Christian man was to act and to treat his wife. John walked the talk. He was truly an amazing example to me and I was blessed to have known him.
October 22, 2017
Reed & Debbie Jones
There are no words..none that can come close to describing the man, husband, father and friend. They all fall short. John had a profound impact on our lives and we feel so very blessed to have called him friend. We love you all!
October 22, 2017
Jenny Eury
I had the pleasure of working with John at IBM in the early 80's as we supported the PACE application. His happy nature made work more fun with his smile, silly jokes, and care for others. My memories of him will forever hold a special place in my mind!
October 22, 2017
Jerry Hendrick
Kyle and family my wife and myself are sorry for your loss. Please know you all will be in our prayers. Jerry and Christal Hendrick
October 22, 2017
Michele Siemasko
I was so saddened to hear of John's passing, a wonderful man ,My older daughter enjoyed learning sign language in music at Salem Baptist, he always had a welcoming smile as his wife does,I'll pray for your family's comfort during this time. Michele L. Siemasko
October 22, 2017
Brenda(Bea) Tubre
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you go through this difficult time. My prayers are that you find comfort in knowing how special John was to all who knew him. My memories are from an earlier time in John's life as I remember growing up with John, going from Kindergarten at his Grandmothers home to graduating from high school. As classmates we are heartbroken but at the same time rejoice knowing he Is with our Heavenly Father. May the Lord bless you and comfort you.
October 22, 2017
Dirk German
I just got out of the service and my sister introduced me to John and Teresa. They had a huge impact on me in understanding and pursuing my faith. John Crawford was a Godly man who truly lived his life through actions and when needed backed it up with his words. I feel honored and blessed to have known him and his family. With much respect and sympathy during this difficult time, Dirk and Beth German
October 21, 2017
Tina Canfield
My deepest sympathies to your entire family as you navigate this difficult time.
October 21, 2017
Karen Bingham
His smile and his sweet spirit will be missed at Salem and in Apex. Hugs and prayers that comfort you until we all see him again.
October 21, 2017
Sharon Monroe
Your dad was an incredible man and his life was a testimony to all who knew him. When I first came to Salem I remember watching him at the front of the Chapel as he did sign language for the deaf. I will never forget leaving the church office at the end of the day and seeing him chopping wood and waving hello to me. During his battle with cancer he would even ask me, "how are you, everything ok?" He was a special part of our church family and will be dearly missed. ~ Sharon Monroe
October 21, 2017
Rob Schantz
I used to work with John at IBM and remember him fondly. I am very sorry to hear of his passing and I express my deepest sympathy to his family and friends. John was a wonderful person and he touched the lives of many people. I am honored to be one of those people. Blessings and prayers.
October 21, 2017
Johnny Saenz
Heaven has gained a wonderful man and servant! Our hearts are saddened, but we are comforted by his new/healed body, and the assurance that we will see each other again! We love you very much and are lifting prayers for your family.
The Saenz and Ardolino Families (neighbors)
October 21, 2017
Martha Thomason
Jason and I were so sad to hear the news of Johns passing. He and Teresa were the first people we became attached to at Salem years ago. They truly were the reason why we chose Salem to begin with. With their love and caring kindness they show the love of Christ to us.
Teresa, we love you so very much. And I will be praying for you and your family. Here is a great big holding-you kind of hug, I will miss John, too. My favorite memories about him were his smile, hug, & his gentleness as he greeted me & as he did sign language at church. :)
October 21, 2017
Jennifer O'Connell
I am sure everyone who has met your parents can attest to the love of Christ that plainly exuded from them both. I had the distinctive pleasure of serving with your dad and his bride in Thailand and they forever touched my heart. God Bless you all as you celebrate your father's incredible life on earth and now in heaven. If ever there was an angel on earth it was John Crawford. Praying that God will give you comfort in sorrow in the coming days, hope for what is yet to come, and the assurance of HIS presence with you always.
October 21, 2017
Bridget Parker
Sending my prayers of peace and comfort over your family during this time! I'm so sorry to hear of John's passing. Find strength in knowing he is healthy and sitting at the feet of Jesus now!!!
October 21, 2017
Betty Evans
Reading your words, Kyle, reminded me of all the Christmas letters you wrote. What a treasure of memories you all have, and we as friends have as well. John was a light to all he met and will be missed. Praying for all of you as you adjust. He is shining brighter in heaven today.
October 21, 2017
Sending our love and prayers. John was a faithful servant to his Lord, and an example we should all try to follow. Heaven gained an awesome man. Til we met again in Heaven. Sincerely, Linwood and Dianne Council
October 21, 2017
Patrick Williams
From our family to yours, we wish you peace and compassion. If there is anything you need or anything that we can help with, we are here for you.
October 21, 2017
Laura Quattlebaum
What a sweet tribute, Kyle! We'll miss your dad; he was a keeper! Praying for your family. Hugs to all!
October 21, 2017
Mike Jordan
John indeed did leave a legacy in many lives. He was a large influence on my walk with Christ when I was in my early twenties and that influence remains today in my personal life and my married life. I will always have great memories of John and Teresa teaching the college/young married class.
I know my dad has another great friend and fellow servant now in Heaven.
October 21, 2017
Vera Plechash
I am heartbroken to hear about John's passing. Teresa and family, you have my earnest prayers for your comfort. John was one of the most positive, wonderful men I have ever known. He went out of his way to say encouraging words to others even while he was enduring his own pain. His memory is really precious to me. John is rejoicing with His Savior this day. God bless you, Teresa and family.
October 21, 2017
Suzan Bell
What a precious tribute to a wonderful man. We will miss him. We love you all and we will continue to keep you in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers!
The Murray Family
October 20, 2017
So very sad to hear that John has passed. He was a tremendous man, Christian, and friend. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to meet and get to know him during the Salem Men's golf retreats. He was the highlight of the trip for me when we met for the long weekend. I know you guys will truly miss him as well as so many others. My thoughts and prayers go out to you guys. I'm glad he is with our Heavenly Father tonight celebrating that gift of eternal life and singing His praises (John did like to sing a lot down here). God bless you guys.
Wes Strader and family
Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more