Charles Leo Crawford Sr

Rev. Dr. Charles Leo Crawford Sr., age 83, was born on September 24, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Samuel B. Crawford and Jessie Lee Wright Crawford of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana. He peacefully departed this life, leaving a lasting legacy of faith, family, and devoted service to God and community.

Rev. Crawford received his early education in Washington Parish and graduated from Vernon High School. He later attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After relocating to New Orleans, he was employed at Tulane Medical School while faithfully pursuing his spiritual calling and continuing his higher education.

Answering God's call to ministry, Rev. Crawford attended Christian Bible College, where he earned a Bachelor of Theology degree. He furthered his theological studies at A.P. Clay Bible College in Kenner, Louisiana, receiving a Master's Degree in Theology and later earning a Doctorate Degree in Theology. His commitment to biblical teaching and spiritual growth profoundly influenced the many lives he touched through preaching, mentorship, and ministry.

In addition to his pastoral work, Rev. Crawford dedicated many years of faithful service to Avondale Shipyard. He served as a Paint Inspector and Quality Control Inspector before retiring as a Safety Inspector. Known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and pursuit of excellence, he earned the respect and admiration of coworkers and friends alike.

A man of unwavering faith, Rev. Crawford devoted his life to ministry and community leadership. He faithfully pastored Second Salvation Baptist Church for twelve years, leading with wisdom, compassion, and a servant's heart. He later became a devoted emeritus member of Good Samaritan Ministries in Westwego La, a church founded and pastored by his son, Rev.Dr.Charles Crawford Jr, where he continued encouraging others in their walk with Christ. His favorite scripture, Matthew 6:33, reflected the guiding principle of his life — always seeking God first.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of forty-two years, Ella Jean Crawford; his parents, Samuel B. Crawford and Jessie Lee Wright Crawford; his grandmother, Gussie Watson; his brother, Samuel Crawford; and his sisters, Yvonne Joseph and Geraldine Warren.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory his children: Dorothy Maxon, Gina Crawford, Charles L. Crawford Jr., and Chad Crawford; daughters-in-love, Twanda Crawford and Shawanda Crawford; his brother, Jerome Crawford; sisters, Gussie Parker and Gloria McLain; his cherished grandchildren: Tara Maxon-Scott (Kelvious), Charles L. Crawford III, Jesse Crawford (Jasmyn), Chelsie Crawford, Terman Nash, Tyrus Crawford, Caleb Crawford, Chella Crawford, Keidric Briley, and Kirstyn Briley; five great-grandchildren, Kah'Ri Scott, Kahja Scott, Kah'El Scott, Zeni Green, and Creed Crawford; along with extended family, his church family, and a host of relatives and dear friends.

Rev. Crawford's life stood as a testimony of faith, perseverance, leadership, and unconditional love. Though absent from our sight, his legacy will forever live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." — Matthew 6:33