Thad Crawford

Iron Duff Community, Thad Crawford, age 90, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025, at his residence. He was born on January 8, 1935, in Haywood County, and was cherished by his family and friends.

Thad dedicated a significant portion of his life to his career, working as a dispatcher for Suburban Propane before retiring. Following his retirement, he managed Silver’s Cove Fox Pen where he spent a majority of his leisure time.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Thad served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

Thad was a dedicated fox hunter and found joy in showing fox hounds. He had a deep love for NASCAR and often spent weekends watching car racing and pulling for his favorite drivers.

Thad was a devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church, where he enjoyed relationships that enriched his life and the lives of others. His faith provided him with a strong foundation.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Valaree Henderson Crawford; their daughter, Janet Hamlin (David); two sons, Jim Crawford (Sheila), and Dean Crawford (Marie); one sister, Barbara Moody (David); five grandchildren, Cale Crawford (Taylor), Kellie Walsh (Ryan), Cassie Neslen (George), Jason Crawford (Anais) and William Crawford; as well as seven great-grandchildren, Dree, Aspen, George, Athena, Florence, Koda, Kaia. Thad's legacy will live on through the love and memories he created with his family.

Thad was preceded in death by his father, Clinton Crawford; his mother, Lavonia Milner Crawford; two sisters; and three brothers. His loss will be felt deeply by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Antioch Baptist Church in Waynesville, North Carolina with Reverend Chris Wilmoth and Reverend Josh Blight officiating. Burial will follow the service at the church cemetery. 

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to; St Jude's Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to a charity of one's choice in honor of Mr. Crawford.

The care of Mr. Crawford has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville