Mr. Gene Wesley Crawford passed away on July 18, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on September 21, 1934, he was a man of honor, dedication, and immense love for his family and community.
Predeceased by his parents, James Harvey Crawford and Annie Laura Adams Crawford, his first wife, Patricia Joan Glover Williams, with whom he shared two children, his second wife of nearly 40 years, Mary Judith Baugh Crawford, his brother James Burton Crawford, and his son-in-law Michael Ross Page, Gene's legacy continues through his living family. His children, David Wesley Crawford and Deborah Ann Crawford Page; stepchildren, Larry Wayne Cheek (Cathy), James Dennis Cheek, Sr. (Susan), and Steven Mark Cheek (Tammie); his cherished granddaughter, Tiffany Michelle Brown (Levi); step-grandchildren, Amy Wade (Kevin), Dottie Rowe (Kevin), James Dennis Cheek, Jr. (Aimee), Jarred Ray Cheek (Ashley), Steven Cheek, Matthew Cheek, and Ansleigh Cheek; and ten great-grandchildren, will forever remember his guiding light. Gene is also survived by his loving sister, Mary Catherine Peeler, and brother, Bobby Clyde Crawford (Mary Ann), along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and a host of close friends who were touched by his generous spirit.
Gene's commitment to his country was evident through his service in the United States Navy Reserve for three years. His professional life was devoted to Southern Bell, where he worked diligently for 42 years, retiring when it was known as Bell South. His work ethic and dedication to his role were mirrored in his deep involvement with various associations and community services.
A man of faith and action, Gene served proudly as part of the Stone Mountain Baptist Disaster Relief Team, setting up kitchens to feed those affected by disasters. His hands also worked to build churches with the Bold Builders for the Southern Baptist Convention. Gene found his calling in ministry as the assistant pastor for seven years at Canaan Baptist Church in the 1970s, and his passion for teaching led him to be a Sunday school teacher for over 50 years in churches throughout the Covington area.
Gene's interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. He was a talented musician, playing the steel guitar and Dobro, sharing stages with the likes of Bill Anderson at Avondale High School and performing with other bands. His creativity extended to the cultivation of beautiful flowers, a testament to his ability to nurture and grow life in all its forms.
A Funeral Service for Gene will be at 11:00AM, Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell & Son Funeral home with Pastor Matt Murphy and Pastor Richard Culpepper officiating. Interment will be at Covington Mill Cemetery following the service. The family will receive friends for visitation from 10:00AM until 11:00AM at the funeral home prior to the service.
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