LT. Col. Thomas Edwin Crawford

Lt. Col. (Retired) Thomas Crawford departed this life to enter his heavenly home on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 in Tyler, Texas. Tom was born in Timpson, Texas on March 15, 1927. He grew up in Joaquin, Texas. He was drafted during WWII after he graduated from Joaquin High School. His first tour of duty took him to Korea. For a time after he got out of the U.S. Army but was in the Army Reserves. He worked in the East Texas oilfield and met the love of his life, Laura Gossett. They were married in 1947. Tom was called back into active duty. He decided to make the Army a career and served for 25 years, earning a Purple Heart. A second combat tour in Korea followed. Later he was deployed to Vietnam as an advisor during JFK’s presidency (1960-1961). His last overseas duty was spent in Okinawa as part of the logistical support for Vietnam (1966-1968). Tom retired at Fort Sill, Ok in 1970. He and his family moved to Henderson in 1971 so they could be close to their families. Tom completed his education at Stephen F. Austin State University in 1974 and earned his BBA. Many friends were made at SFA. Later he was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus at SFA. Because of his love for education, Tom and Laura established several scholarships to provide students with educational opportunities. They also provided scholarships to students at East Texas Baptist University. His generous spirit blessed many during his life and left a lasting legacy. His next career began at Henderson Clay Products where he was Personnel and Safety Director. When Boral Products acquired the brick business he served as a vice president until his retirement in l989. Tom served on various boards and was a past president of the Chamber of Commerce in Henderson. He was a long time active member of the Henderson Lions Club. Tom was also a 32nd degree mason and a shriner. In the years following his retirement, Tom and Laura traveled to many places. Their special memories were made as they worked with the Volunteer Christian Builders from First Baptist Church, Henderson. As a member of FBC, Tom taught the Radio Bible Class for a time. He enjoyed the fellowship of this class and listened to it by radio when he was unable to attend services. Thomas, along with his family, would want to thank the caregivers of Emeritus-Henderson. For the past year he was a resident of Watkins-Logan Texas State Veterans Home in Tyler, Texas. The care and attention he received was such a blessing as they ministered to his needs in many ways. The final salute given by those at Watkins-Logan touched the family since the men he lived with were like his brothers and the staff were like our family. A special heartfelt appreciation goes to these special men and women. Heart to Heart Hospice also gave excellent care to Tom. We appreciate each person who dedicated themselves to his service. Loving God, his country, family and friends was evident by all who knew Tom. He found great pleasure in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his daughter, Stella Kathryn Hall (Kathy) and Roy. Grandchildren-Trenton and Rachael Hall, Corby Hall, and Jen Hall. Great-grandchildren-Sam, Lilly, Levi, Luke, Reed, and Benjamin. They were the delight of his life. Nephews and nieces-Doug Crawford, Jr. , Joe Crawford, Dwane Hutto, and Judy Zick. Sister-in-law, Louise Crawford. A special niece, Helen Holland, gave her time and love to her Uncle Tom. He was preceded in death by his wife, Laura Gossett Crawford, his parents, Tommy and Bessie Scott Crawford, sister, Bennie Alice Hutto, and brothers, Bud, Doug, Sr. and Charles. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until service time on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Crawford-A. Crim Funeral Home in Henderson, Texas. Funeral services will be held in the chapel at 2:00 pm with Dr. David Higgs officiating. Graveside services with military honors will follow at Rusk County Memorial Gardens under the direction of Crawford-A. Crim Funeral Home. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Henderson Lions Club. Anyone wishing to make memorial contributions can make them to SFASU Alumni Assn. at PO Box 6096, SFA Station, Nacogdoches, TX 75962-9918, East Texas Baptist University Scholarship Fund, c/o University Advancement, East Texas Baptist University, One Tiger Drive, Marshall, TX 75670, or the Volunteer Christian Builders of FBC at 207 W. Main St., Henderson, TX 75652. Any gifts or contributions would be appreciated. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.crawfordacrim.com.

LT. Col. Thomas Edwin Crawford

March 15, 1927 - October 7, 2014