Harry Crews

CREWS, Harry Douglas, 74, of Richmond, Virginia, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2009 after a determined and courageous battle with cancer. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Willie L. and Lorine Crews; brothers, Jimmy, Bobby and Billy; and sister, Nancy Crews Duncan; and special aunt and uncle, Nancy and Buck Hudson. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Heather, whose devotion to Doug and her daughters will always be cherished. He is also survived by daughters, Lorine Jarrelle and husband, Jeff, Kathy Cleveland and husband, Rusty; and stepson, Mike Cotton. Other survivors include sisters, Diane Vetsch and husband, Deke, Judy Hamby and husband, James, Patsy McCormick and husband, Freddie; brother, Jerry Wayne Crews; and grandchildren, Jeffrey, Jessica, Jewell, Chayse and Madison. He is also survived by a devoted, lifelong friend, Jerry Brady. Doug was a graduate of John Marshall High School, where he was a member of the Cadet Corp, Company B, after which he proudly served his country for 22 years in the U.S. Air Force. He was a graduate of the NCO Academy and recipient of a Medal of Commendation. He also served time in England, Germany and Japan on flying status for 12 years. After retiring as a master sergeant in 1974, he worked for 18 years at Philip Morris as a supervisor. He was also a 32nd degree Mason. He loved his family and country and will be remembered as a true gentleman, who was always respectful of others. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Special thanks to everyone at Retreat Hospice Unit, especially nurses, Formeka, Val and Ashley, for their incredible care and compassion. Arrangements by Angelus Funeral & Cremation Traditions.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.