Today, we bury a good man. He was a loving and helpful father. He was the type of man that would help you whenever you needed him. He went by many names: Butch, Tangle Foot; but I called him-Dad. He was our hero. He taught us many things about life and sometimes gave out life lessons. I know in my heart he’s in a better place. Throughout his life, he reached and touched a lot of people. So today, I say, He’s not gone but watching over each and every one of us. We love you, Dad, as he would say-whaaat.

Mr. Edward Arthur Crawford was born in Gaston County, North Carolina on April 19, 1952 to the late Edward and Jessie Mae Dee Crawford. He entered into eternal rest on Tuesday; August 4, 2020 at Brian Center in Gastonia, North Carolina.

Edward was educated in the Gaston County School System and later went on to educate himself. He loved to help people and work on various automobiles and electronics. He was a jack of all trades. He loved his kids and grandkids. He loved to watch Westerns and work on cars. He was an exceptional cook and prepared meals for his family. Through the ups and downs, he was always there for friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Edward Arthur Crawford, Sr. and Jessie Mae Dee Crawford.

Left to cherish precious memories are his wife: Janie Viola Crawford; children: Edward Arthur Crawford, III, John Arthur Crawford, Christopher Lee Crawford and Dora Ann Crawford; siblings: Francis Roberta Meeks, Carolyn Ann Crawford and Richard Alexander Crawford; grandchildren: Johnatha Edward Crawford, Sarina Viola Crawford, Kristopher Amir Robinson, Gabriel Yency Lemus, Miquel Yency Lemus, Monica Aaliyah Crawford and Chrishaune Lee Crawford and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Graveside Service: Tuesday; August 11, 2020; 12 noon; Kelly's Chapel Cemetery (331 Payne Road, Bessemer City-house just before cemetery)

Masks are required; will be live on Gregory Funeral Service Facebook at 12 noon