Roy George Crawford, 77, of Dover, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, December 13, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Born October 18, 1947, in Steubenville, Roy was the only son of the late Roy E. and Lillian Taffe Crawford. A 1965 graduate of Steubenville Catholic Central High School, Roy began his career in the City Engineers Office for the City of Steubenville, following in his father’s footsteps. However, his career path shifted when he was drafted into the U.S. Army later that year. Roy’s natural leadership abilities quickly became evident, leading to his selection for Officer Candidate School. He served as a Second Lieutenant with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during the Vietnam War, spending two years in Korea constructing bridges at the DMZ. After returning from active duty, Roy continued his service with the U.S. Army Reserves, concluding his military career as Operations Officer with the 463rd Engineer Battalion, Construction, and retiring at the rank of Major.
Utilizing the GI Bill, Roy earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Science from The Franciscan University of Steubenville in 1972. He began a 35-year tenure with W.E. Quicksall Associates in 1973, ultimately retiring as Head of Construction Projects in 2008. Not one to slow down, he joined the Ohio Department of Transportation District 11 as Facilities Manager, further showcasing his dedication and expertise.
Roy’s life was defined by service—to his country, community, and family. A proud member of the U.S. Jaycees since 1973, he served as the 52nd President of the Ohio Jaycees from 1980 to 1981. His leadership extended to local government, where he was a respected figure, serving over 20 years as President of Dover City Council.
Roy’s contributions to his community were vast and varied. He served on the Dover Citizens Advisory Committee and the Tuscarawas County Community Improvement Corporation and was a District Chairman for the Buckeye Council Boy Scouts of America. His involvement extended to organizations like the Dover Band Boosters, the Tornado Club, the Dover Exchange Club, the American Legion, and the Dover VFW, where he was a past Post Commander.
Above all, Roy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sharon Barnhouse Crawford, whom he married on December 22, 1970; his son, Troy (Lisa) Crawford of Naples, Florida; his daughter, Amy (Tony) Crawford Thiel of Dover; and five grandchildren: Zachary, Landon (Rena), and Allie Crawford, as well as Chasse and Brett Miller. Roy’s family and friends will forever cherish his unwavering dedication, boundless generosity, and indomitable spirit.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Southern Care Hospice for their compassionate care during Roy’s illness, with special thanks to Olivia, Cheyenne, Angela, and Pastor Lennie.
Roy’s legacy of service and love will be carried forward by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Friends are invited to call at the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Roy’s life will be celebrated at the funeral home on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Lennie McKinney officiating. A committal service will be held at Dover Burial Park’s mausoleum. A reception will take place at the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center. To sign an online guestbook for Roy, visit the obituary link on the funeral home’s website.
Toland-Herzig Funeral Homes & Crematory
803 North Wooster Avenue
Dover, Ohio 44622
330-343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com