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James Robert Crawford


YORKTOWN – James Robert Crawford “Jim”, 88, of Dare, passed away at his home on January 11, 2025 and into the arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jim was born in Asheville, NC, to the late Wilbur H. and Elizabeth Neilson Crawford. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, James Robert Jr. “Bob”, his daughter-in-law, Lisa Crawford, his sister Judy Johnson, and his brother-in-law, Sam Johnson. He is survived by his son Tim Crawford, daughter Bonnie Wandersee (Billy), daughter Beth Heaton (Marty) and daughter-in-law Teresa Crawford. His beloved grandchildren April, Sean Crawford (Caitlin), Heather Crawford (Evan), Molly Cogan (Culton), Jordan Dozier (Andrew). His great grandchildren Brenten, Evangeline, Bonnie, Nolan James, Callum Lee, Layken Grace, Paislee Renee, and Raffael Lawrence. He is also survived by his nephew, Dave Johnson who he loved so much and his wife Jennifer and their children, Sam (Hailey), Will, Tim, and Caroline.
The family moved to the peninsula in the early 1940’s, and Jim graduated in 1954 from Hampton High School. Jim then went on to Blacksburg and graduated from VA Tech in 1958 with an engineering degree. A resident of York County since 1967, Jim loved raising his children on their property in Dare next door to his sister, brother-in-law and nephew. His home was his happy place and always included many animals of all kinds. Jim retired as a Nuclear Engineer in 1996 as a civilian with NAVSEA, Supervisor of Shipbuilding. His retirement calendar stayed full as he coached many ball teams for his grandchildren and cheered them on in everything they did. His life was completely lived for his family and helping others. He coached special league softball and Junior Rifle at Lafayette Gun Club for many years. He was a man of many talents and always had projects going even building homes, garages and anything his children needed. Jim loved his family deeply and was the epitome of a strong protector and provider for those he loved and cared for.
A funeral service will be held at Amory Funeral Home in Grafton beginning with visitation at 2:00 pm and service to follow at 2:45 pm on Friday, January 17th. David Johnson will be officiating. Private family burial will follow at Providence Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be sent to The Alzheimer’s Association, Southeastern Virginia Chapter, 6160 Kempsville Circle, Suite 322A, Norfolk, Virginia 23502. This organization was dear to Jim’s heart as his sister suffered with Alzheimer’s for many years.

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