W. Ray Crawford, 89, passed away on December 19, 2021. He was born on May 15, 1932, in Jonesborough, TN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ida (Archer) Crawford, two brothers, Gene Crawford and Blaine Crawford, his son, Michael Ray Crawford, Sr., and a grandson, Mark Edward Phillips.
He is lovingly survived by his wife of 65 ½ years, Joyce Crawford, his daughters, Teresa Delvalle, Sandra Crawford (Tommy Dugger) and Stephanie Crawford (Paul Pierson); four grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and several great great-grandchildren; one sister (Hazel Malone); and two brothers (Clyde Crawford and Lee Crawford). He also thought of Linda (Hart) Bradley and William (Willie) Hart as his “adopted” children.
Ray was a dairy farmer for more than fifty years. He was the owner of Bright Acres Dairy. He loved farming and cows were his life. He was always stepping up to help others. Ray was a long-time member and former president of the Tennessee Holstein Association. He was also a member and past president of the Appalachian Holstein Breeders, and a board member of Select Sires.
The family would like to thank Caris Hospice, the Veterans administration, and the Waters of Johnson City, for their care provided to our loved one.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home. The graveside service at Fairview Cemetery will follow, officiated by Santo Cicirello.
12/30/2021
David and Sandra Holt
So sorry to just find out about your loss. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy. Farmers are to be honored.
12/24/2021
Shirley Broyles Roark
So very sorry Joyce & girls, he was a great man. Rest In Peace Ray!
I just found out about Ray and am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was always a true friend to all of my family. May God hold you in the palm of his hand during this sad time. Jack
Sorry for your loss, did not know about the passing of your dad. We don’t get the paper anymore take care prayers be with you all. I have tried to get in contact with Paul but no come back,love you guys,later.
Joyce and Sam, I am so sorry to here of Ray's passing. Please accept my sincere condolences.
12/22/2021
Wassan Broyles
So sorry to hear about Ray's passing. Have not seen Ray in a long time but my Mom and Dad thought a lot of the family. I remember as a kid Mom and Dad would stop and chat a while at the old home place. My condolences go out to the friends and family of Mr. Ray Crawford my he rest in peace, Wassan and Vickie Broyles and family.
