Gordon William Crawford

Services were 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Bible Baptist Church, Buffalo, with Dr. Robert Baker officiating. The music service was by Angie Rash singing, “What a Day That Will Be,” Sheryl Ferrell singing, “How Great Thou Art,” and the congregation singing “I’ll Fly Away,” led by John Throckmorton, and Sheryl Ferrell on piano. Burial was in Liberty Cemetery near Long Lane under the direction of Montgomery-Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo. Visitation was 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, at the funeral home. Escorts were Rick Beckman, Chris Daniels, Jeremy Daniels, Rick Daniels, Steve Hunter and Cody Persell. Gordon W. Crawford, Long Lane, was born June 27, 1934, in Roca, Neb., the son of Gordon R. and Sophia Rose Crawford. He died Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009, at St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, at the age of 75 years, 4 months and 8 days. He made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ at an early age and became very active in the youth group at Liberty Methodist Church in Long Lane. He graduated from Buffalo High School in 1951, and moved to Kansas City to work. He was united in marriage with Lillian Lynn on Aug. 20, 1955. In Kansas City he was a very active member of Kensington Avenue Baptist Church where he was ordained a deacon. He was a leader in the youth and young adult departments — a director, teacher, mentor and special friend to a host of young people and adults. Most of the young people at church just called him dad. When he retired from Yellow Freight Systems in 1991, he and his wife moved to their farm in Long Lane, and spent many more wonderful years together where he enjoyed working on the farm and being active in the church. He was a member of Bible Baptist Church. He certainly loved the Lord and showed it throughout his life. He also enjoyed his membership in the Long Lane Lions Cub where he was active as long as his health permitted. He was a wonderful dad to his very special family, and grandfather to his wonderful grandchildren, and his very precious great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his loving wife of 54 years, Lillian, of the home; his son, Tom and wife, Dee, Wichita, Kan.; five daughters: Jan and husband, Rick, Gladstone, Camilla, Lees Summit, Nancy, Kansas City, Darla and husband, Steve, Fair Grove, and Sheila and husband, Rick, Buckner; 17 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Gordon William Crawford

January 31, 1933 - November 4, 2009