SMSgt Gary Eugene Crawford, of Doniphan, MO, passed away on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. He was born September 23, 1947, in Santa Barbara, CA, to the late George Willis and Fern Eloise (Page) Crawford. Gary was drafted into the United States Air Force and served this great country with unwavering dedication and faithful service. He was honorably discharged after 27 years. 14 years were served in Europe, and two remote tours, one in Vietnam and one in Korea.
After retiring from the United States Air Force, Gary worked for the United States Postal Service in Doniphan, MO, where more great friendships were made. Gary loved spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, camping, and just floating around a lake on his pontoon boat. He also learned a love for woodworking from his late father and spent many hours in his woodshop.
Gary leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Sharyn Alice Clark, and two daughters, Carrie Ann Emerich and husband, Jim, of Warrensburg, MO and Tracy Leanne Connors and husband, Bill, of Irmo, SC; two brothers, Mike and wife, Jodie, of Lompoc, CA and Terry and wife, Carolyn, of Robbinsville, NC; a cousin, Alyce Phillips of Hendersonville, NC. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Patrick Crawford. His wife, Donna, survives. Also surviving are six great-grandchildren, Alyce and Daniel (Bill and Tracy), Ashley, Morgan, and Cooper and Thomas (Jim and Carrie); as well as eight great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, September 13, 2024, beginning at noon with the memorial service to follow at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Buddy Boyd of Ava, MO will be officiating.
