Walter Elmore Crawford

Walter Elmore Crawford

Walter Elmore Crawford, 85, of Charlottesville, died Monday, December 14, 2009, at his home.

He was born in Ivy on February 16, 1924, a son of the late Thomas W. and Elsie Mae Ray Crawford. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Thelma Thompson; three brothers, Leonard Crawford, Clifford "Buster" Crawford and David Crawford.

He was a hard-working, loving husband and father. We all love him so much and will miss him everyday until we see each other again.

He worked many years at the concession stand at the Ridge Drive-In Theater and as a mail contractor for the United States Postal Service. He loved the outdoors, especially working in his garden in the summer and cutting wood in the winter. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was wounded in action and received two Purple Hearts for his service in Italy during World War II. It was there that he met his bride of 63 years, Elia Magherini Crawford.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Gloria Wood and her husband, George; two sons, Michael Crawford and his wife, Lisa, and Felix W. Crawford, all of Charlottesville; one brother, Alvin Crawford of Crozet; a former sister-in-law, Ramona and a sister-in-law, Corradina Tironi and her husband, Ed; three grandchildren, Greg Wood of Charlottesville, Angela Wills and her husband, Shawn, of Faber, and Jessica Crawford of Charlottesville; one great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn Wills of Faber, who was his ray of sunshine and brought a smile to his face every day; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside funeral service will be conducted 11 a.m. Thursday, December 17, 2009, at Holly Memorial Gardens with the Reverend Derek Koolman officiating.

The family will receive friends 7 until 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 16, 2009, at the Teague Funeral Home.

The family would like to thank those who provided care, Martha Jefferson Hospital and Staff, Sentara Healthcare and Legacy Hospice. A very special thank you for the love and care shown by his dedicated care givers, Mary, Sue and Vickie. They made it possible for him to remain at home.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Legacy Hospice, 675-180 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22911.

Friends may sign a guest register at teaguefuneralhome.com.


This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.