John Montgomery Crawford

John Crawford passed away on January 24 after struggling with a combination of illnesses over many years. John was preceded in death by his parents, Lon and Martha Seay Crawford, his brother, Cleveland S. Crawford, and his dear wife of 61 years, Virginia. Survivors are his daughter Amy Cleverdon (Edwin), step-grandchildren Hamilton Cleverdon (Maegan), Elliot Cleverdon, and Josephine Cleverdon, and his cousins Sara Elizabeth Craft and Jim Crawford.

John grew up in Sylacauga, and upon graduation from high school he enlisted in the Army, serving honorably during the Korean War. Upon returning home he used the GI Bill to help earn his degree at the University of Alabama. After working for a short time as a radio announcer in Alabama and Florida, he enjoyed a long career as a manufacturer’s representative for Toyota Motor Corporation, forming many treasured and life-long friendships. After retirement he and Virginia moved to Birmingham.

John was devout, leading Sunday school classes and engaging in in-depth Bible study. After moving to Birmingham, he and Virginia became active members of the McCalla Bible Church.

Amy and Edwin offer heartfelt thanks to the staff of Compassus Hospice for making John’s final days easier and to everyone at Kirkwood by the River for the loving, personal, and excellent care they provided. They were a great comfort to us all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the patient fund at Kirkwood Life Care Fund, which provides financial support to residents whose funds will no longer support their stay at Kirkwood, or to the charity of your choice.

John’s memorial service will be held Sunday, February 5, 2023, at 2:00 PM with visitation immediately following at Curtis and Son Funeral Home, 1315 Talladega Highway, Sylacauga, AL 35150.