Samuel Raymond Crass

Samuel Raymond Crass, 79, joined his Heavenly family on September 25, 2016. Sam was born at home in Murray, Kentucky, on February 6, during the Great Flood of 1937. He was the middle son of Maurice and Martha Crass.

Sam graduated from Murray State University in 1958, with a B.S. in both Chemistry and Biology. He was a charter member of the MSU chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, and received recognition for his academic success.

Sam would say his greatest accomplishment while at MSU was meeting Nancy Carrol Westerfield, who became his bride in June, 1958.

Upon graduation, he worked as an industrial chemist and Sam and Nancy built their dream house in Murray. Just after they moved in, on Labor Day weekend in 1964, Sam suffered the rupture of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). He was 27 years old, and had been married 6 years. His daughter Karen was 4, and Cathy was 2.

Sam was rushed to Vanderbilt University Hospital, where Dr. William F. Meacham, Chair of Neurology, performed what was a revolutionary surgery at that time, inserting plastic beads into Sam’s artery to form a clot and stop the bleeding into his brain.

Though the surgery was successful, Sam did suffer a stroke. Nancy stayed by his side at Vanderbilt. The recovery was long and slow, and Sam fought heroically to regain speech and mobility. Three months later, just before Christmas, Nancy was able to bring him home. Sam continued his rehabilitation, against all odds, and above all expectations. With Nancy’s dedication and Sam’s determination, he was able to walk once again. And drive, and work, and thrive.

Just two summers later, Sam took a job with a chemical manufacturing company, moving his family to LaGrange, Kentucky, and making it their home for the next 46 years.

Because he accepted no limitations, he led a life full of service to his family, his church, and his community. Sam worked several years in the chemical industry, then began teaching high school in Oldham County, and later at Kentucky Country Day. He pioneered a remedial learning skills program there, and then moved on to the field of vocational teaching.

Sam retired from his educational career as the principal of Jefferson State Vocational and Technical School, in Louisville.

As a witness of his profound faith in God, Sam committed himself to service with the community at LaGrange Christian Church, serving as Elder and teacher, and devoting time to its prison ministry, nursing home outreach, and other church activities.

He enjoyed the mission and fellowship of organizations such as The Gideons, and LaGrange Optimists. He served for many years on what is now Oldham Planning and Development.

Sam and Nancy demonstrated to all who knew them a love and devotion that few can match. They worked hard together and for one another, and Sam grieved deeply when Nancy passed away in November, 2013.

Sam was truly a gentleman, and for his daughters, Karen Krill (Chuck) and Cathy Clore (Rob) and their families, there was no finer example of fearless determination and faithful perseverance. 　

Sam treasured time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, reveling in the accomplishments of each. He was rightfully proud of Casey Krill, Lara Krill, Dabney Clore, Corey Krill, Mary Clore, Clay Krill, Caroline Krill, John Clore, Andrew Witak, and Madison Krill.

He is survived by all of these, as well as his brother and sister-in-law, A. B. and Sally Crass, of Florida, nephew Gary Crass (Krista), and nieces Gay Robison, Laurie Rollins (Eddie), and Susan Howard (Bill), as well as great-nephews and great-nieces and their families.

A service to honor the life of Sam will be held at Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home at 10am Thursday, September 29th with burial to follow at Valley of Rest Cemetery in LaGrange, KY. Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 4-8pm at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Sam to LaGrange Christian Church.