Tony Crockett, “Big Tony” to the world, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. Affectionately known as the “Mint Man,” Tony always had a pocket full of mints for every man, woman and child he met. His heart belonged to Jesus, his devoted wife of 32 years and especially, his grand babies. “Pappy” was always up for dolls, games, tractor rides or generally anything ornery. He could make them laugh like no one else and was a truly dedicated accomplice in anything they could dream up.
Tony’s journey began on January 11, 1961. He was born to Ethel and the late Donald Crockett in Fort Smith, Arkansas and went on to graduate from Greenwood High School in 1979. He married the love of his life, Janet in 1991. Tony started the TRC Service Co. and had a large presence in the oilfield industry for many years.
Big Tony enjoyed lake trips with his family, ATV rides and just working around on his tractor. He was an avid outdoorsman, making many memories with his children and grandchildren hunting, fishing and reveling in the outdoors. But, nothing brought him joy like driving children to worship our Lord in the church van. He also took pride serving as Justice of the Peace for District 4 between 2011 to 2016. He and Janet were members of Rye Hill Baptist Church.
Tony “Pappy” Crockett was preceded in death by his father, Donald Crockett, beloved grandson, Drew Crockett, father-in-law, James Baxter and sister-in-law, Terry Dedmon. He is survived and missed by his loving wife, Janet Crockett; mother, Ethel Crockett; sister, Teresa (Dennis) Hart; mother-in-law, Pat Baxter; sister-in-law, Lisa Roland; brother-in-law, John (Melissa) Baxter; sons, Tony Jr. (Sarah) Crockett, Doug (Amber) Dedmon, Justin (Shanyn) Dedmon, Andrew (Cindy) Crockett; grandchildren, Mason Dedmon, Lexi Dedmon, Catelyn Gregory, Hunter Dedmon, Christina Gregory, Anna Grace Dedmon, Chase Gregory, Tray Crockett and River Lee Dedmon and numerous loving nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Monday, July 17 at Rye Hill Baptist Church with burial at Steep Hill Cemetery under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. Viewing will be Sunday from 3 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home, where the family will visit with friends from 5 – 7 p.m.
Pallbearers to be Dellbert West, Dustin Williams, Randy Clark, Steve Hamilton, Rocky Pendleton, Darryl Bolter and Kenneth McClain.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
