Senior Deacon Nathaniel Crawford, Sr. was born on April 8, 1921, in Groveland, Florida to Will and Millie Crawford.

He served in the United States Army Private 1 Class from 1943 -1946 receiving an Honorable Discharge. Nathaniel was employed by the Seaboard Coastline Railroad for 34 years, the City of Tarpon Springs Recreation for three years and the C.A.P. Center for 10 years. Deacon Crawford was a member of Oak Hill Church of God In Christ , where he served as the Senior Deacon and as the Sunday School Superintendent. He loved to fish, loved his family, and loved his church.

Nathaniel was a father figure to many in the community and a role model to all. He received recognition in 2019 for his outstanding work in community service to Tarpon Springs. Nathaniel was awarded a Centenarian Certificate for being one of the longest-living citizens in Tarpon Springs, attaining 102 years old.

Senior Deacon Nathaniel Crawford, Sr. departed this life on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at home in his sleep.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Mille Crawford, siblings, Janie, Kate, Ruth, Bertha, Andrew, Fred, Sylvester, and Clarence , one aunt, Cora, and son-in-law, Jonas Merricks, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memories …

Wife of 76 years: Mother Virginia Crawford

Sons: Dr. Nathaniel Crawford, Jr. (Helen), Earnest Crawford, Sr. (Debbie), both of Clearwater, FL, and Richard Lee Crawford (Valerie) of New Port Richey, FL

Daughters: Gearldine Merricks of Clearwater, FL, and Georgia Mae Jefferson (Andrew) of Holiday, FL

30 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, and 35 great-great-grandchildren

Devoted niece: Bishop Vivian W. Mouzon

Nephew: Henry Collins, Jr.

Extended Family: James and Brenda Dorsett, Richard and Tammie Wiggins

A host of other relatives and friends.

Public Viewing: Friday, September 22, 2023, 6-8 PM at Smith-Young Funeral Home, 1005 Howard Street, Clearwater, FL 33756.

Home Going Celebration: Saturday, September 23, 2023, 11:00 AM at Countryside Christian Church, 1850 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater, FL 33759.

Entrusted Care is provided by Smith-Young Funeral Home.