Jan. 28, 2013
Leah Nicole (Nikki) Wilson Crawford, 38, of Dallas, passed away Monday morning, Jan. 28, 2013 after a long and courageous battle with lung cancer.
Born in Akron, Ohio, Nikki was the daughter of Richard S. and Susan Nigro Wilson of Akron, Ohio.
Nikki graduated from Garfield High School, Akron, Ohio, Class of 1993, where she played softball, volleyball and was a student announcer. She was a graduate of the University of Akron, Class of 1998, and a member of the "Extreme Team" for Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball.
A former on-air personality, Nikki worked for several radio stations in Ohio including WZIP, WKDD and WQMX. She also worked at WOGG, Pittsburgh.
Nikki was loving mother to her two sons and stepdaughter. She was active in the Moms Meet Up group in the Wyoming Valley and attended Shavertown United Methodist Church.
Surviving, in addition to her parents, are husband, John D. Crawford, Dallas; sons, John A., age 6, and Ryan A. Crawford, age 3; stepdaughter, Madisson Crawford, age 14; brother, R. Scott Wilson Jr., and wife Holly, Akron, Ohio; father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Joan Crawford, Freehold, N.J.; sisters and brothers-in-law, Christine and Paul Sansone Jr. and Susan and Stan Gonzalez; nieces and nephews, Leah and Kayla Wilson; Paul, Michael and Brooke Sansone; Alexa and Paige Gonzalez; many more loving family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Harold C. Snowdon Funeral Home Inc., 140 N. Main St., Shavertown. The Rev. M. Lynn Snyder will officiate. Friends may call Thursday from 5 p.m. until time of service at the funeral home.
A second memorial service will be held in Nikki's hometown on Saturday at 1 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, 292 E. Market St., Akron, OH 44308-2091.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Crawford Children's Scholarship Fund C/O Wells Fargo Bank, 2124 Memorial Hwy., Dallas, PA 18612.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Scott Wilson.
I just came across the obituary for your lovely daughter, Leah. I am moved to comment because my wife and I also lost our lovely daughter, in our case to brain cancer. We know that although you move forward in life you always carry the weight of this loss. Blessings be with you.
My brother, Dave, and I attended NCT high school with Dick.
Paul Eshelman
December 24, 2020
I just read every entry. Nikki was Truly Loved! I think about you and miss you everyday! My Beautiful niece. We will see each other again. Love you to Heaven and Back! Love, Aunt Debbie
January 23, 2020
R.I.P. NIKKI. ONE...
Jumaane Miller
Classmate
January 23, 2020
I am so sorry for the loss. A great girl along with her family.
James Dowling
July 14, 2016
You will always be missed, had no idea of your passing, definitely an angel on earth and in heaven
John Allen
February 15, 2015
Missing you Nik.
Thee Ox
February 21, 2013
Dick, Susan, Scott, and The Crawford's,
Thinking of you all each day since Nikki's passing, and praying that God gives you comfort. I can't imagine or begin to understand how you feel, but my heart pours out to you all. I wish that we could have made it to the memorial service on Feb 2nd. We would have been there to support you if we could have. With much respect and sincerity, Cyndi & Enrique
Cynthia Torres
February 10, 2013
My heart goes out to Nikki's family. I am so sorry. My prayers will be with you. May God heal your heart.
Kenny Kesler
February 8, 2013
So sad to hear of her passing. I feel fortunate to have known such a wonderful person. I offer my sympathy for her family.
Jeff Meyers
February 8, 2013
Dick and Susan we were so saddened and heart broken to hear of Nikki's passing. She was such a beautiful girl. We hope god brings you comfort in your time of need. All of you are in our hearts and prayers.
Jon, Kathy, Jonathan and Erica Weaver
February 4, 2013
I remember playing softball with Nikki. She was such a sweet person and so very talented. I also had Nikki's mom in elementary school. The Wilson family are all great people! I'm so very sorry for this tragic loss. I'm praying that God's grace will get you thru the coming days, weeks, months and years as you see her beauty in those kids. I bet Nikki and my dad are discussing old softball days in heaven.
Jill Hillyer Sullivan
February 2, 2013
To the Crawford & Wilson Family, I am so sorry for you loss. I did not get the privilege of knowing Nikki but feel like I have known her for years, from all the wonderful things I have heard about her. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Nicole Barmherzig
February 2, 2013
John and all of the families, my heart goes out to all.
February 1, 2013
Dick, Susan and Scott, We were all so sad to hear of the passing of Nikki. I remember her as being so sweet and shy. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all. God Bless and Comfort you as the days go on.
Jack and Diana Williamson
February 1, 2013
May the God of all comfort help your family at this time. I took care of Leah a couple times. She was a brave young lady that I admired.
I am praying your family will experience peace from the Father of all compassion. Mary Lou Hoffman
February 1, 2013
To all of Nikki's family & friends, so sorry for your loss. I didn't know Nikki, but I can tell that she was a beauiful soul and well-loved. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
GlennaRae Boyd
February 1, 2013
To the Wilson and Crawford families,
Words are inadequate for the loss you are feeling. From the moment we heard of Nikki's fight, we lifted her and your families up in prayer. Our sympathies go out to your families. The loss of Nikki is truly felt after growing up like a big family in Firestone Park. I can only imagine how many lives she touched in her years here on earth with her kind heart and unforgettable smile. She will be missed. God Bless.
Jen (Taylor) Zwick and family
February 1, 2013
To Dick, Susan, and Scott:
I am so sorry for your loss. I think of you often and will do so especially at this difficult time.
Tom Ross
February 1, 2013
I was lucky enough to work with Nikki at the radio station in Akron. She always had a smile on her face. I'm sad to hear about the passing of my friend. I send prayers out to her family.
Denny Hazen
February 1, 2013
As someone in radio as well, it's sad to see one of your own leave us so young. I also recall fellow metal DJ's like the Mad Squirrel (Ken McCann, 2003, age 40) and the Sandman (Roderick Lucas, 2000, age 37). Prayers for the family and friends of Leah and for her to be in arms of our Savior.
Bob D
January 31, 2013
Nikki,
You will be missed, I could not believe the news when I heard it yesterday. You were a great person and i'm sure a great mother and wife as well. You will be sadly missed.
Jay Conner
January 31, 2013
We're so sorry for your loss,our thoughts a prayers are with you.
January 31, 2013
Dick, Susan and family: We are so terribly sorry for your loss. What a brave woman she was and she most certainly fought the good fight. This is a horrid loss for all of you. You have a very special family and there is no doubt that with all the love and support between you, you will somehow be able to deal with your pain from Nikki's loss. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kathy Stone
January 31, 2013
John, we were so sorry to hear of your wife's passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Richard and Joann Etter, Canton, Ohio
January 31, 2013
We were so very saddened and heart broken to hear of Nikki's passing. We have fond memories of Nikki especially during Garfield softball seasons! Please know you are in our prayers. Grief can be so hard, but your special memories will help you cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Love, LouAnn and Tim Crawford
LouAnn Crawford
January 31, 2013
Mrs. Wilson and family,
I offer my deepest sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time.
Carrie (Dyser) Searle
January 31, 2013
To the Families of Leah - My prayers to your families that peace fills your heart and Leah remains in your spirit forever. May God watch over you and Bless you. Susan Rhodes (friend of Debbie Wilson Hursey)
January 31, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers to the Wilson and Crawford families as you deal with such a loss. May the wonderful memories you shared help to ease the pain.
Richard & Karen Stokich
January 30, 2013
Dear Dick, Sue, Scott, and the Crawford Family: Truly there are no words to express our sadness and convey our sympathies. Praying that you find peace and comfort in the memories of Nikki and the love of those around you.
Elizabeth Herget Martin and Family
January 30, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to her family. She was a special young lady, that was taken to soon. And I am so very privledged to have known her.
January 30, 2013
Dear Wilson and Crawford Families:
I'm so sorry for your loss. Nikki was loved by so many people and it's amazing to read how much she impacted everyone's lives. I have so many great memories of growing up with her, as she was my best childhood friend. I will never forget her. God bless you all. I will keep you in my prayers.
Laura Smith (Winkler)
January 30, 2013
Wilson and Crawford Families
Our hearts are breaking over the loss of your Nikki. We pray for strength for you to deal with your grief and comfort in knowing that she is no longer suffering.
Bud and Jeanette Dreier
January 30, 2013
Susan and Dick and Family,
May your memories,family, and friends bring you peace. Many thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. Nancy Stratton Meyers
January 30, 2013
To the family and friends of Nikki. I am so sorry for your loss. I can remember our days at Firestone Park Elementary. Such a sweet & polite young lady! Gone too soon... praying for the family and friends of this angel! Rest in heaven my dear
Onyema Lindsey
January 30, 2013
So very for your and the boy's loss, John and family. Sending prayers your way...
Tim Miller
January 30, 2013
Dear Crawford and Wilson Families,
Deepest sympathy for your loss. Our prayers and hearts are with you.
God Bless
Denise & Chris Alevras
January 30, 2013
I was just reading the paper and seen this my heart aches for the family i myself am 38 with three children and this sad story touched my heart . i am praying for all of you . god bless
January 30, 2013
I am so sorry. Your family is in my thoughts.
Becky McPerry(Johnson)
January 30, 2013
Dick, Susan and Scott,
I am very saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. As a girl, I thought she looked like her mom, I now see very much of both mom and dad. What a beautiful woman!
Cathy
January 30, 2013
Susan and family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your daughter. We lost our son (age 42) January 27, 2013. Two little boys also (ages 8 & 9). Remember the good times. You are in our thoughts and prayers. - Linda and John Tedrow
Linda Tedrow
January 30, 2013
John,
Kim and I are so sorry to hear about Nikki. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you, your children, and everyone that was touched by her.
Stu and Kim Schroeder
January 30, 2013
My condolences to the family. May God bless you and give you comfort.
C Jackman
January 30, 2013
I cannot find the words to express how much Nikki touched my life. My thoughts and prayers with you and your family.
Sarah Horn
January 30, 2013
John - I remember meeting Nikki at a WOMP FM event about 9 or 10 years ago. She was so beautiful and sweet. My deepest sympathies to you and your children during this difficult time.
Laura Fitzgerald
January 30, 2013
Thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time to the Crawford and Wilson families. May the memories and laughs you all shared with Nikki help in the healing process.
Steve, Natalie & Landon McGee
January 30, 2013
Dick and Susan,
We are so sorry to learn of your daughter's passing. May God bless you and your family, giving you strength at this time and in the days ahead.
Dick and Janis Corbin
January 30, 2013
Wilson - Crawford Family,
Our hearts are heavy as we hear of the loss of your angel Nikki. I only had the chance to talk to her a cpl. times she visited her parents, but she left such an impression of a beautiful, caring person. Our prayers are with you and may God hold you close. You're angel will be forever looking over.
Jeff & Jackie Keller
January 30, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Wilson & Crawford families. Nikki will be greatly missed. She was an amazing person.
Caryn (Fallick) Link
January 30, 2013
So sorry for you loss - prayers to the family.
January 30, 2013
John, Susan, Dick, Scott and Holly, there are no words right now that can ease your pain but I pray God will get you through this terrible time. He does take the best Nikki was a beautiful, kind, loving friend. Always had a smile on her face and brought happiness to the room. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. Words can't express how very sorry I am for your loss.
Mary Bell
January 30, 2013
so sorry for your loss may god watch over you in the days ahead and give you strength so sorry susan and scott may god bless you all
January 30, 2013
John, I was so sorry to hear about Nikki. My sympathy and prayers for you and the children.
Mary Lou Jones
January 29, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to all of Nikki's Family!We knew Nikki through her Uncle Dick & Aunt Debbie. Spent so many fun days at the Jamboree with her and family!What a Sweet and Beautiful young Woman! Heaven sure got a wonderful Angel! Rest in Peace Nikki!
Clancy & Carol Banks
January 29, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss. May God be with you all.
Nicole VanPelt-Cheatwood
January 29, 2013
To the Wilson and Crawford families - I am so sorry for your loss. Nikki was such a sweet, caring individual. She has touched so many lives in her short life here on earth. I was blessed to know her. My thoughts and prayers are with you (and especially her 2 little sweet boys) at this time.
Erin
January 29, 2013
Even though I never met Nikki I felt attached to her, maybe it's because we're battling the same disease. Her passing has deeply affected me. We were cousins. I'm so sorry I never met her, she was BEAUTIFUL inside and out. God Bless her Family and may God be there to comfort you every step of the way.????Sherry Moran & Family
Sherry Moran
January 29, 2013
Kelly Reymann
January 29, 2013
A beautiful soul lost to us on earth, but gained by God in Heaven. We will miss you Nikki, until we meet again...
Kelly and Dave Reymann
January 29, 2013
Nikki was a good friend and a sweetheart. I have some very fond memories of our days in school. My condolences to the Wilson/Crawford families. The Lord must have had special plans to take her so soon.
Jason Broz
January 29, 2013
My prayers are with the friends and family of nikki. She was an amazing woman I had the honor of knowing and calling a friend. You will be missed and we will always remember you.
jason silverstein
January 29, 2013
Thinking of all of you everyday. Nikki was so loved by so many. My heart breaks for all of you. Saying prayers and so sorry for such a devastating loss. May God bring you peace and comfort.
Brandi (Securro) Achberger
January 29, 2013
Dear Susan and Dick, We send our love and prayers to you and your family and pray that God brings you comfort at this very trying time. When I think of Nikki, the first thing that comes to mind is her beautiful smile. May she rest in peace.
Love to all,
Helga & Gregg Hippich
January 29, 2013
Wilson and Crawford families.... Our hearts go out to you during this most difficult time. Deepest condolences.
Allyson and Patrick Mobley
January 29, 2013
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.
Eustacia Netzel-Hatcher
January 29, 2013
Nikki was my neighbor for a while and helped me through a tough time...although I'm sure she never knew. My heart goes out to the Crawford family. You will be in my prayers. God has welcomed a special angel through his gates. She will be missed by all.
Shannon Bullers
January 29, 2013
I, as so many do, have fond memories of Nikki..from the 1st time we talked about her joining the Froggy team..her air name "Lori Leaper", the radio fun we had, the honor of attending her wedding to John, her bright smile daily, which you could always hear on air. Rest in Peace.
Terry Hunt
January 29, 2013
To the Crawford and Wilson families: May all your joys and cherished memories rise to greet you and envelop you in Nikki's loving arms each day of your lives. She shall always remain "little Nikki" to us beautiful and so very special. We loved her very much. God Bless.
Hank & Marjie Winkler
January 29, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss. God bless your family during this difficult time.
Chad & Michelle Sarver
January 29, 2013
To The Wilson/Crawford Families:
Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful Nikki. My heart aches for you all. May your blessed memories give you some comfort.
Molly Harvey
January 29, 2013
To the family, I am so sorry for your loss. I went to high school with Nikki and she was a really nice person. She is a great loss to this world.
Lisa Brinley
January 29, 2013
You have my deepest sympathy. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Joan Lindon-Curren
January 29, 2013
Wilson & Crawford Families - Our hearts break for the pain you all are feeling. It has been an honor to be a part of your lives over the past couple of years. Nikki brought such courage and light from within that it lit up everyone around her. We are priveledged to have been friends with her and will always remember her for smile, laughter and kindness. She is an inspiration to all women and mothers out there. Her legacy will continue to live on in those two sweet boys. The only comfort is that she is no longer in pain. God bless you all!
David & Martine Schoenwetter
January 29, 2013
My deepest sympathy and much love and prayers to John, Johnny, Ryan and the entire family! Let the love and support of your wonderful family and friends carry you through! I love you! Aunt Nancy and family
January 29, 2013
Martine Schoenwetter
January 29, 2013
John and the Wilson's and family:
God is always with us and will never leave our side. God Bless You Nikki and God Bless You All. Much love toward you all.
Eric White
January 29, 2013
Dear Wilson and Crawford Family,
My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. May God bless you during this difficult time. May you find peace in knowing that Nikki's legacy will continue on within her children. I will continue to pray for all of you and hope you find some comfort and peace within God's arms. "Be still and know I am God."
Lisa M. Winkler
January 29, 2013
We are deeply sadden hearing of the loss of Nikki, our thoghts and prayers go out to the Wilson and Crawford Familys
Mike & Maria Lukasavage
January 29, 2013
John,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know it took great strength for you to come to my husband's viewing in September with Nikki being so ill. It meant a great deal to me & I want you to know you are in my thoughts & prayers & if you ever need someone to talk to I am here for you. My love to you & your family.
Doreen Dixon
January 29, 2013
Deepest sympathy to you and the children. Rob & Mary Vandine
January 29, 2013
My heart is aching for Nikki, her husband, her boys, her stepdaughter and all her family and friends. Nikki was truly a good and kind person. Her journey has ended far too soon. She will be missed by so many, because she brought light to everyone around her.
Sandra Miller-Bartley
January 29, 2013
Nikki So many hearts broke in Ohio over the last 24 hours. Your friends from the University of Akron and WZIP will always remember your sweet smile and the friendship you showed everyone and anyone... God Bless you and your family. I'll miss you.
Thomas Kemp
January 29, 2013
The Wilson – Crawford Family,
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories of Nikki to forever hold in your hearts.
Bobby & Missy Tschappat
January 29, 2013
She is now in the arms of God & surrounded by his love.
Loretta & Tom McCabe
January 29, 2013
To the Wilson and Crawford Families:
We are so saddened by the passing of such a wonderful person. She will always be an inspiration to us and we are so honored to have known her. May your wonderful memories of Nikki help comfort you during this time.
Barry and Kelli Christ
January 29, 2013
Beautiful Nikki, our warrior who fought the battle with a quiet resolve and always kept the smile on her face and warmth in her heart. We love you and will miss you dearly,knowing that you were an angel on earth and now you are watching over your(3)boys xoxo
Doris McKelvey
January 29, 2013
no words can express the sorrow we share hearing of Nikki's passing - our prayers go out to Richard, Susan, Scott and his family, John, Johnny, Ryan - may the Lord give you comfort in this very difficult and tragic time.
Dave & Jill Herget
January 29, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Our deepest sympathy.
Herb and Lynn Peters
January 29, 2013
no words can express the deep sorrow we feel knowing that Nikki is no longer here with us - our thoughts and prayers to Richard, Susan, Scott and his family, John, Johnny and Ryan - may the Lord wrap his arms around all of you and bring you comfort. Dave and Jill
January 29, 2013
Dear John, Johnny, Ryan, Dick, Sue and Scott..May you continue to receive Gods grace and blessings. May comfort and strength surround you. You are all loved.
Debbie Winkler
January 29, 2013
Nikki, I saw something yesterday that I know you and I would laugh about so hard we would cry, as we usually did. My best days were with you. The sweet memories and fun flood my mind. I will always remember our special song..all of our inside jokes. You would say how blessed you are to have such wonderful friends and family who gave support the past year and a half. You were loved by so many and you loved so many back. I replay our late night talks in my head and remember how positive you remained no matter how you were feeling. You said things to me I will never forget and you are my inspiration to be positive, brave, strong, just be happy and truely live life because I saw you do it even when it was hard. The light in your eyes and your smile can never be forgotten.
For now, rest in a beautiful place and have lots of funny stories for me when I get there.
I love you "Katy" My one and only "twofer." You blessed my life and I thank You.
Debbie Winkler
January 29, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Sharon Bradshaw
January 29, 2013
The staff and volunteers at Candy's Place would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Crawford family. Leah was a lovely person and she will be missed.
Candy's Place
January 29, 2013
Nikki was one my best friends for many years. We had so many great times together. She will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Crawford and Wilson families. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Renee Whitacre Little
January 29, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers go out to her husband and two little boys and all of her loving family.
Pamela Perich-Schumacher
January 29, 2013
Dear Crawford Family,
Because we knew Nikki and the boys through Trinity Learning Center, we at the church have been praying for her and the family. Please know your family will continue to be in our prayers as you wrestle with your loss.
With sincerest sympathy,
Rev. Kathleen E. Jamhoury
Trinity Presbyterian Church
Rev. Kathleen Jamhoury
January 29, 2013
Susan,
I am so sorry. She fought the fight and now is at rest. You and your family are in my prayers.
Love, Gay Trammel-Witt
Gay Trammel-Witt
January 29, 2013
Donny called and told us of your loss, if there is anything we can do please let us know. Give the boys a big hug.
Butch and Carole Fast
January 29, 2013
John, I am truly sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Jim Zongilla
January 29, 2013
John, very sorry to hear of your loss. What a kind woman. Condolences to you and family.
drew pascucci
January 29, 2013
To Nikki's family,
I knew Nikki from WZIP as we were music directors together there and became good friends. She was a great person and I'm so grateful that my path in life crossed hers. She will truly be missed and I'm deeply sorry for your loss. I will keep you all in my prayers. Heaven's got another angel looking down on us!!!
Jeff Reymann
January 29, 2013
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