I met Jerry many years ago when he was just a kid living along with his parents, sister Nancy and later brother John in Grove, Ok. Jerry’s dad pastored several churches in the area, not to mention many revivals where my dad led the music and I accompanied him. Always such a nice person and he loved his family very much. I really miss Jerry, even though it’s been many years since we’ve seen him. I look forward to the day we are all reunited with Jesus.

To My Father
By Georgia Harkness

A giant pine, magnificent and old
Stood staunch against the sky and all around
Shed beauty, grace and power.
Within its fold birds safely reared their young.
The velvet ground beneath was gentle,
and the cooling shade gave cheer to passers by.
Its towering arms a landmark stood, erect and unafraid,
As if to say, “Fear naught from life’s alarms”.
It fell one day.
Where it had dauntless stood was loneliness and void.
But men who passed paid tribute – and said,
“To know this life was good, It left it’s mark on me. Its work stands fast”.
And so it lives. Such life no bonds can hold –
This giant pine, magnificent and old.

To me, my dad is the greatest man that ever lived. I am honored to carry his legacy forward. Until we meet again…

I miss my friend. Jerry was such a kind and generous friend,  and a real comedian. I can only imagine how much Mary and his girls miss him. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

Jerry Crawford was one of the kindest human beings I have ever met. My former husband Mark Huckins was also born on May 18th and I married him because he was one of the kindest people on Earth! I met Jerry many years ago when Mark and I founded Mr. Miniblind, a Franchise Company in CA, Jani King was so very blessed to have Jerry.  From time to time I would touch base with him and he would graciously take my phone call. Will see you in heaven Jerry and may God comfort and take good care of your entire family. 
My sincere condolences.
Christina Kotula
Laguna Beach CA

I was shocked to hear of Jerry’s passing!  I worked for him when Computer Concepts, Inc. first moved to Springfield!  He was a great boss & friends to everyone!

I was saddened to learn of Jerry's passing.  I had the privilege of knowing Jerry during the 24 years I worked at the International Franchise Association.  He was a man of class and integrity and always welcoming and friendly to the staff.  Peace, Jerry and deepest sympathy to Mary and your entire family.

Tuve el inmenso placer de saber de usted y de su exitosa vida y trayectoria empresarial en 2008, cuando la expansión de Jani King se gestaba en España y eso me dio animo y fuerzas para intentar alcanzar mis sueños.

Lamento profundamente tan irreparable pérdida y quiero dejar constancia de mis condolencias a toda su descendencia y amigos.

Animo !!. Nadie se muere del todo, al menos, mientras permanezca su recuerdo.

Le aseguro que no lo olvidaré nunca !!.


I was blessed and honored to know Jerry over the years having had the opportunity to handle his travel arrangements to Atlantis, Paradise Island Bahamas

Jerry was by far the kindest, most appreciative, and grateful person I had the pleasure of meeting 

His energy, spirit, and infectious smile illuminated and brightened the lives of so many..  his presence will remain in our hearts forever!

My heartfelt condolences to Mary and his extended family members.. God Bless



Jerry’s family was part of our family’s  life in Grove, OK. His dad baptized me, the Mount twins thought Brother Crawford was Jesus! We grew up with them. I was always so proud to know them. I remember when the elementary kids walked through the high school classrooms with our costumes on for Halloween. Jerry made a cow noise and I was so proud to tell my peers that I know him!
I pray for his family and world will not be the same without him in it. I pray for peace and comfort.

Mr. Crawford hired me to my first professional position out of college. Through 5 years at Jani King International he was truly a role model for me to look up to. From a “Management Trainee” to an eventual Executive Director of multiple corporate regions Mr. Crawford had full confidence putting me in that role, even at a young age. He taught me so much both professionally and personally. Similar to my father, no one could deny the love he had for his friends and family and his rock-solid faith in God. You will be missed.

Rest In Peace Jerry and may your family  feel God’s loving arms wrapped around them.

Dina Dwyer-Owens

Aloha Jerry. We are so grateful that you were a part of our lives. Thank you for your leadership and friendship for all these years. You will never be forgotten.

I remember very fondly your trip to Hawaii to help us open our region. You rolled up your sleeves and literally worked day and night to help get us on track. We simply couldn’t have done it without you.

The highlight of this trip, though, was the surprise birthday dinner Mary planned for you. I remember you being a little disappointed that I asked you to join me on an evening sales call on your birthday. We were to meet with a potential client at a restaurant. It was all made up to get you unsuspecting to your party. You walked in and found a giant banner that Mary put up in the restaurant that read “Lordy, Lordy, look who’s Forty!” Then you turned toward me and flashed me your famous, infectious, irresistible smile.

We send our deepest love and condolences to the Crawford family.

Love,

Mark & Laura


Jerry’s  love for his beautiful family was always his top priority. Even when he was in the midst of important business transactions, he always had time to give Mary a call, or make sure his daughters were doing well.  
Jerry loved to come on board M/Y Destiny and get comfortable in his “favorite chair in the world” and meet with clients, relax with his family, or most often, ask me about every member of my family by name. His ability to recall those details always amazed me and it made me feel so grateful to know him. 

Jerry wore his success with grace and humility. He made sure that every single person around him was recognized for their efforts and contributions, no matter how small. People thrived under his leadership because he gave his support so generously. 

The crew of M/Y Destiny will always remember the times we shared with Jerry and his family, and we will miss him dearly.  

Jerry was an inspiration to us. He was man of  integrity and a friend in franchising that was always there for any one in need. We are grateful for all the wonderful dinners and time spent at IFA board meetings with Jerry and Mary, moments that we will treasure.
Mary, we are praying for you and your entire family. With lots of love, Dina and Mike

To Mary and Jerry’s extended Family. 

Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. 

Jerry and I crossed paths at Jani-King for close to twenty years. It was an exciting period of time for all of us in those days. We hatched plans, closed bars, learned a lot, and shared family news.  My success was intertwined with Jerry’s success. He was the first, and only, person with whom I’d seal important deals using just a handshake.  That was Jerry.  After I left the Jani-King family in 2009, we talked occasionally and always respected each other’s place in life. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew Jerry, loved Jerry, and crossed paths with Jerry. 


I first met Jerry at a Dallas Cowboy game in which him and his wife Mary invited me. I had the best time and found that Jerry was not a man that flaunted his success. He was a kind generous man that enjoyed making people happy. He was definitely a person to admire with his values and accomplishments. I wish I would have gotten the opportunity to know him better. 

To all of Jerry’s wonderful girls: I met this very special man one day at Glendale Baptist Church and at that moment I just knew he was not only special but someone I had to get to know. I am so glad that I did. Space will not allow me to tell all that I did with Jerry and it would be hard to put into words what his friendship has meant to me. Jerry and I served together at Glendale Baptist and our pastor always said “Make friends with people that will make you better” Jerry’s greatest gift to me was to make me better. Thank you Jerry I love you so much.

Jerry Crawford was a treasured friend  and amazing human being . We worked together to further the cause of franchising for many years. Jerry’s integrity and heart drove his effort and I was and am honored to be called his friend and admirer . You are missed Jerry . God bless your entire family . I understand your pain Mary having lost my forever love Micki .  God is good all the time . Much love, Dear.
Jim

Crawford Family,

Our sweet Jerry Crawford was the most rare and uncommon kind!  He was loved – truly, deeply loved (by everyone who ever met him) and somehow, some way he managed to out-love and spread love better and more freely than anyone I have ever known. Jerry was simply heaven sent!  His infections laughter and smile, silly wit and humor, jokes, and the 1,001 ways he brought joy to my heart and my days are forever written on my heart.  It was the greatest privilege, honor, and opportunity of a lifetime to have worked with and for Jerry for 27 years.  He was a model family-man, friend, leader, advocate, and mentor who lived a life of great service, sacrifice, dignity, integrity, honor, and grace.  Our world will never look the same!  We share in your sorrow and lift your entire family up in prayer during this most difficult time.  

In gratitude for every blessing, experience and the lasting memories we made.

 Lauren and Lexy Rambo

Boomer in Heaven, JLC.


To Mary and Family,

We experienced life with an extraordinary, and very special man, Jerry Crawford. Most every moment created a new and memorable experience in all that we did and shared together.  From a simple family movie night to a movie premier, from a swim in the ocean to a social business experience on a yacht, from talking to a prospective Jani-King client to Jerry introducing U.S. Presidents at the International Franchise Association’s Annual Convention; from college football Saturdays at your house to a Super Bowl game, Jerry made every moment special!

I will miss his “can do” attitude, his enthusiasm for life, his energy, his loyalty and most of all, the time he made (whether he had the time or not) to help me through my best and most difficult days.  My life will never be the same, but I will forever cherish the time I had with him and shared with your family.  I will miss him dearly.

Jim Cavanaugh


Dear Crawford family, 

I had the pleasure of spending so much time with Jerry over the years and got to see so many different sides of him. I was able to see him in so many different situations and circumstances and Jerry always found a way to find time for everyone. I remember so many times being in the conference room with him and his phone would ring with the famous "alarm" ring tone (for Mary) and he would stop whatever he was doing to answer. The same would happen when we went on dove hunting trips, his phone would ring, he would answer, and at the same time find a way to hold his shotgun and the phone to take down a bird while yelling "I got him!". Never missing a beat. I learned so much from Jerry and will miss him dearly. I am so grateful for having the opportunity to have such a great role model and mentor in my life. He touched so many people. 

They say you will know them by their fruits and Jerry's fruits were plentiful. 

We love and miss you Jerry. 

Steve Tapken and family

have good memories of both Crawfords and the significant  contributions and  self less support provided by Jerry  during his many years of dedication to the IFA and Leadership
Farewell Jerry....we hope to see u again...in the beyond!!....U.Gary


Mary and Family,
I want to extend my sincere condolences to you and your family during this time.  It has been an honor to be under Jerry's leadership for the past 13 years here at Jani-King.  Jerry was always approachable with encouraging words and a smile during all of those years. I will miss his encouraging emails and motivational talks during our office gatherings.  He was a man of integrity and always had kind words and a smile that lightens up a dark room.  May the peace and comfort of God be upon you and your family in the days ahead. 
 I share with you a scripture for comfort and encouragement in the days ahead, from John 14:1-4. 1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, also believe in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may also be.  4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. (KJV)

Peace and Comfort,
Mary Hooks 


My dear Mary and family,

I am so very sad at the news of Jerry’s passing. What a terrible loss for all of you and for all of us who knew him.  Jerry struck a deep chord in me, his decency and kindness stand out above all. He was always there to lend a had up to a friend and he seemingly never met a stranger!  I will miss his smile and genuine open heart. He passed so much before his time, giving every last bit of effort to his job and family as he went.  I am grateful to know that he will find repute in place that is free from pain and has the peace and ove of our God.  I will be back in Texas soon and hope to visit with  you then!  Robert

Mary & family,
My heart is heavy for you and the loss of of Jerry.  Jerry and I go back to the 2nd grade in Grove, Okla.  We had such a great time in school playing sports and being teammates.  He was so mischievous and full of fun.  I attended First Baptist Church with him, which his father was the pastor.  I went on to Oklahoma State and Jerry to OU.  I’m going to miss the fun we had teasing each other when they played.  I’m blessed to have moved to the DFW area in 2009 so I could continue to stay connected with Jerry. 
Jerry was such a great husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend.  I’m going to miss the friendship we had since we were young kids.  May the Lord bless the Crawford family as they grieve in their loss. 

Mary and family, my heart breaks for each of you.  The legacy that Jerry leaves behind is a true testament to the man he was and the character that we all loved.  I am not sure that I have ever met a man who was more proud of his family.  He loved each of you immeasurably and unconditionally.  Jerry took a chance on me 14 years ago and allowed me to join the Jani-King family.  I am so very grateful for that.  He mentored me and coached me.  He taught me that the most important thing you can do in management is to respect those who you mentor and coach.  That lesson has served me well. 
  
  I will leave you with this.  What if?  What if I had done a little more?  What if I had given a little more?  What if I had been there a little more?  You see, the problem with "what if" is that it is almost always looking backwards.  I would challenge all of us to replace "what if" with "how can I".  How can do a little more?  How can I give a little more?  How can I be there a little more? You see,  how can I is forward looking and I know that is what Jerry would want all of us to do.  We all know that Jerry was always trying to figure out how to give a little more of himself.  
  
May God bless the Crawford family in the days, weeks and months ahead.  Please know that we are all a little better for having known your precious gift that you all shared with us.  

Shane, Cheri and Trevor Anderson   

My sincere condolences to the "entire" family ! 
Jerry was a quiet man but such a mentor!  My thoughts and prayers are with you all! 
Love,
Dawn 

Praying for the family during this season of grief. I am so grateful for a God who walks with us through life then takes us to Heaven to be with Him. We have HOPE because we have Jesus! 

I especially loved Jerry's sense of humor and generosity. What a great guy to know and admire. 

May God comfort you with His grace, mercy, and peace (2 Corinthians 1:2-5).

Doug and Kristi Page

My sincerest condolences.  My prayer is that you feel the warmth, peace and comfort of our dear Lord Jesus at this heavy time. Prayers have been and continue to be lifted.

Mary and family,
Through 30 years of thick and thin, Jerry always lifted us up with his quiet strength and commitment.  (And mischievous sense of humor!)  He was a great leader and teammate, but most important he was simply a good friend.  Sending you prayers of strength and peace.
Love, Gordon and Wendy

Mary and family , we are so sorry about Jerry’s passing. We are here for you if there is anything we can do. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
Love
Ruth Ann and Jeff 

Mary and family, my family knew Jerry from the time he was a little boy and beyond.  We also attended church with him at Southern Hills Baptist Churchhere in Miami, Ok.   He was a ornery mischevious  kid if I remember correctly, always keeping Loyd and Jeanie on their toes.  I tried to get in touch with Jerry just about a month ago, hoping to catch up with him and his family in Dallas on our next visit down from Oklahoma.  We, as many others in NE Oklahoma are so very sorry for your loss.  I know he will be missed.

Jerry & Mary have been as much of a part of my family for 30 years, and will continue to be in a very special place in my heart. I would not even know where to begin with so many special times we have had over the years. He truly changed my life when he brought me in as a Jani-King family member. We later became partners but more importantly "Family"  . The Crawford's are some of the best people you could ever have in your life we all love you guys dearly and our Hearts and prayers are with you!!  


Mary and family,
Lifting you in prayer during this time. Prayers of strength, comfort, and peace. Jerry was a remarkable man, a calm in the storms of daily life. His humor, compassion, southern charm, and leadership will not be forgotten. I’m grateful for the years we worked together. His reward of eternal life fulfilled. Someday, we’ll meet again in the kingdom of God. Many blessings to you and your family.
With much love,
Jill Bean

To Mary and the Crawford family.  The email below I sent Jerry a year ago expresses all my love for him and who he is.  An extraordinary man!

Email dates 4/20/20
Hi Jerry,
Hope you and the family are safe and healthy.  Today, I was extremely present to you and who you have always been for me in my life.  I know we have not spoken in eight to ten years, but I think of you often.  In fact, I have written you letters that I have never sent and wrote emails that I never hit "sent".  However, today was a magical day and made me think of you through this experience.  Today, Vanessa and I became parents to a healthy baby boy; Hendrix Van Hawkins.  He weighed in at 6 lbs. 13 oz. and 19 inches long.  Wow, it took me 40 years to become a father and I have to say, it was worth the wait.  

While growing up in my twenties and working with you, you were like a father to me.  I looked up to you and searched for advice in life and work from your experiences. To this day, I wish I was more patient to take it all in.  Not proud of all the decisions I have made in life, but I turned out a good man and I feel that I have empowered others to be fulfilled in life.  One of the greatest gifts you ever taught me is your love for your six daughters.  I always remember, no matter what meeting you were in or what was going on, you always stopped what you were doing to take a call from one of your girls.  It was like the world stopped so you could take their call.  You are an extraordinary father and I have always remembered that. 

Today, I start my journey on being an extraordinary father.  Some day, I hope to have an impact on someone the same way you had an impact on me for the rest of my life.  If I turn out to  only half the father you are to your six girls, then I will call that a "win".  

Jerry, thank you for making a lasting impression on me for my life. Thank you for allowing me to share a photo of my little family and our baby, Hendrix Van Hawkins. 

Take care, Jerry
Jeff Hawkins


Dear Mary and Family,  I am so sorry to hear of your great loss! I have super fond memories of Jerry and you , Mary! Jerry was blessed with the most wonderful charismatic  personality! I will forever be grateful for Jerry's kindness to our family and especially Chuck through his sickness! My heart aches for you! May your wonderful memories of Jerry carry you through your sadness! May you be able to lean on God and his love for your comfort! Jerry had a positive affect on all who had the pleasure of knowing him! Please be assured he will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by all!  So sad and sorry for your loss! With love, Marilyn

OBITUARY

Jerry Loyd Crawford

May 18, 1953 – April 29, 2021

Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home & Hillcrest Mausoleum & Memorial Park

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