His Story

On February 5, 1941 Ulysess Crawford (deceased) and Julia Crawford (deceased) of Cleveland, Ohio was blessed with the birth of Howard Lee Crawford.  Howard was born weighing only two pounds, that’s how his grandmother chose the nick-name Pee-wee which many people called him. He was the third of 4 children, Charles Crawford (Early), Joan Curry (deceased), and Carol McDonald (deceased).

His Life

Howard received his high school education at Twinsburg Public Schools. After he graduated, he enlisted into the Army National Guard as an Infantryman from 1958 – 1964.  His unit of assignment was Company C, 2^nd Brigade 145^th Infantry in Akron, Ohio and reached the rank of Specialist 4. This was a unique and exciting opportunity for him because he was able to serve alongside his Father (Ulysess) and Brother (Charles) at the same time in the same Company.  Upon completion of his enlistment he then pursued a career as a Veterinary Assistant in Hudson, Ohio. In an effort to advance his career Howard obtained employment in Solon, Ohio with Swagelok in1979.  He worked in many positions during his tenure with his final position being that of a Machinist.  Howard completed 37 years of dedicated service at Swagelok until his retirement in 2016 at the age of 75.  Additionally Howard also worked many part time jobs to ensure that he could provide for his family.  Howard was a hard-working man, only taking vacation twice per year, once for family vacation and a second time to attend an annual Pastoral Anniversary in Chattanooga, Tennessee.  During his rare leisure moments he liked gardening, relaxing on his front porch and manicuring his yard.

In 1951 as a young ten-year old boy Howard first laid eyes on Betty Lou Duncan who would later become his beloved wife. During a brief encounter on a school bus Howard looked Betty into her eyes and told her “Im gonna marry you”.  One could say it was love at first sight. Ten years later on July 9, 1960 Howard and Betty Lou Duncan would become husband and wife. They then began to start a family and became the proud parents of four children Tamie Lee (Crawford) Collins, Randy Eugene Crawford, Harry Carl Crawford and Linda Angel Crawford (deceased). In addition to caring for his four children Howard joined his wife as they opened their hearts becoming Foster Parents and later adopting two boys Jermain Crawford and Gairshawn Crawford. They raised several foster children and grandchildren.  He also dedicated himself to being a father figure to those who didn’t have male guidance in their lives. Howard always put family first and was a dedicated father. Early in life Howard taught his family the importance of hard work and he instilled that same work ethic in those around him. One of the kindest souls on this planet, Howard was a gentle, giving man who worked tirelessly to ensure that his family had everything they needed. He faced every challenge in life with admirable strength and courage.

His Faith

In 1983 Howard joined Sharon Pentecostal Church and became a loyal servant of God.  He loved the church and loved sharing the love and warmth of our savior, Jesus Christ with everyone he came in contact with. He held an unwavering faith in God.  Howard continued to grow and serve as a dedicated member.  He taught Sunday School weekly, sharing his love of God with all the young Saints.  Howard also proudly served as Head Deacon, Elder and Assistant Pastor.

His Legacy

Howard kept the faith until he was called home on Saturday, May 13^th 2023. His life will go on in the cherished memories of his loved ones.

His wife, Betty Lou Crawford, his adoring Children, Tamie Collins (Gerald), Randy Crawford (Cynthia), Harry Crawford, Gairshawn Crawford and Jermain Crawford,   Brother, Charles Crawford (Early), Sister in law, Geneva Robinson (Leon), Mildred Rucker,  Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.

Howard is preceded in death by is daughter, parents, sisters and grandson.

Howard, you are now at peace but you will live on forever in many hearts. You are loved so much. Rest in peace.