Senior Deacon Nathaniel Crawford, Sr. was born on April 8, 1921, in Groveland, Florida to Will and Millie Crawford.
He served in the United States Army Private 1 Class from 1943 -1946 receiving an Honorable Discharge. Nathaniel was employed by the Seaboard Coastline Railroad for 34 years, the City of Tarpon Springs Recreation for three years and the C.A.P. Center for 10 years. Deacon Crawford was a member of Oak Hill Church of God In Christ , where he served as the Senior Deacon and as the Sunday School Superintendent. He loved to fish, loved his family, and loved his church.
Nathaniel was a father figure to many in the community and a role model to all. He received recognition in 2019 for his outstanding work in community service to Tarpon Springs. Nathaniel was awarded a Centenarian Certificate for being one of the longest-living citizens in Tarpon Springs, attaining 102 years old.
Senior Deacon Nathaniel Crawford, Sr. departed this life on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at home in his sleep.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Mille Crawford, siblings, Janie, Kate, Ruth, Bertha, Andrew, Fred, Sylvester, and Clarence , one aunt, Cora, and son-in-law, Jonas Merricks, Jr.
He leaves to cherish his memories β¦
Wife of 76 years: Mother Virginia Crawford
Sons: Dr. Nathaniel Crawford, Jr. (Helen), Earnest Crawford, Sr. (Debbie), both of Clearwater, FL, and Richard Lee Crawford (Valerie) of New Port Richey, FL
Daughters: Gearldine Merricks of Clearwater, FL, and Georgia Mae Jefferson (Andrew) of Holiday, FL
30 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, and 35 great-great-grandchildren
Devoted niece: Bishop Vivian W. Mouzon
Nephew: Henry Collins, Jr.
Extended Family: James and Brenda Dorsett, Richard and Tammie Wiggins
A host of other relatives and friends.
Public Viewing: Friday, September 22, 2023, 6-8 PM at Smith-Young Funeral Home, 1005 Howard Street, Clearwater, FL 33756.
Home Going Celebration: Saturday, September 23, 2023, 11:00 AM at Countryside Christian Church, 1850 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater, FL 33759.
Entrusted Care is provided by Smith-Young Funeral Home.
Clethen U Sutton sent Ocean Devotion for Nathaniel Crawford,Sr - September 22, 2023
With Deepest Sympathy from The West Central District COGIC FAMILY
Superintendent C. U. Sutton
Cicely Marks sent The Peace Lily for Nathaniel Crawford,Sr - September 21, 2023
In Loving Memory
Pearl, David, Drex and Cissy
Uncle Nate we miss you so much still can't process that your gone sleep in peace Unc
"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow." In loving memory.
Sending love, thoughts, and prayers to the family during this difficult time. Nancy Sigmon
Sending hugs and prayers to your family. It was an honor and pleasure to get to know you. You wheee truly the beacon of your family and a man of integrity. So much wisdom and spunk. God has gained his angel. I pray for peace and comfort to everyone ππ½ππ½.
Deacon Nathaniel Crawford, Sr was truly a man of honor and integrity. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Crawford family. Earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal. Good night Dea, see you in the morning. ππΎππΎ Missy. Pamela Mustipher-Johnson
Deacon Nathaniel Crawford, Sr was truly a man of honor and integrity. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Crawford family. Earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal. Good night Dea, see you in the morning. ππΎππΎ
We offer our condolences to the family of Deacon Nathaniel Crawford,Sr. Words cannot express our sorrow. To the family always remember that "Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. We love you all and keeping you in our prayers. Mr. and Mrs. Willie C. Smith, Sr. and Family, Cory and Pamela Driver.
My Condolences to the Crawford family. Love You the Gadson family
Blessings. While I did not know you personally, I read that you were an Honorable Man. Thankful for Your service to God, your Family, Your Country.πππΎπ
Blessings. While I did not know you personally, I read that you were an Honorable Man. Thankful for Your service to God, your Family, Your Country.πππΎπ
As twilight falls upon our momentous journey through the seasons of life, we now offer these final words to affirm our admiration, love, and respect for
Nathaniel Crawford, Sr.
Whereas you know not what shall be tomorrow, For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away. James 4:14
Today, we acknowledge the passing of our adopted father who will be with us as long as we remember.
Respectfully submitted, September 23, 2023.
James & Brenda Dorsett
Weeping may endured for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. Psalm 30:5 May God give the Crawford Family comfort during this difficult time. Rest on Dad Crawford, your Legacy will live on through your generations. Love Elder Charles & Missionary Carrol Seay.
Love you dad for ever
Dad I LOVE YOU AN WILL REMRMBER YOU FOR EVER.THANKS FOR ALL YOU TAUGHT US. WE WILL SEE YOU LATER.
Granddaddy my heart is broken π I love and miss you so much. We all do. -Lissy aka "Lisha"
To come to church not feeling my best and to see you get up and walk up and down the aisle singing and praising God always blessed my soul!! You began you rest on my birthday and will never be forgotten. Sing on Deacon Crawford Sr. Much love to the family especially Mother Crawford. ~Wanda S
Grandpa you will always be in my heart and missed dearly. You taught us so much and loved each one of us unconditionally and for that I am forever grateful. You lived a life of joy and happiness. I love you grandpa. Love the third oldest grandchild- Sharell Ortiz
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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