Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Owen Funeral Home - Jeffersontown

9318 Taylorsville Road

Louisville, Kentucky

Thomas Crump Obituary

Crump, Thomas B. "Tom",

Sergeant Major, USMC

Pearl Harbor Survivor

On 8 July 2014, Sgt Major Thomas B. Crump took leave from this life to fulfill the ranks of Heaven's Marine Corps Detachment, leaving the world with one less true American Hero. Sgt Major Crump passed away peacefully at Oaklawn Nursing and Rehab Center surrounded by the ones who loved him most, Veterans.

Thomas B. Crump was born on February 25, 1921 to James and Carrie Lee (Meek) Crump. He was the 9th of 10 children. He has now joined both parents and 9 siblings. Tom leaves behind a devoted wife of 32 years, Ida Amy (DeAngelo) Crump, his granddaughter Kara Fautz; He also leaves behind many friends.

On August 9, 1940 Tom made one of the most important decisions of his life, to join The United States Marine Corps. In 1940 at the age of 19, Tom became Private Crump. After completing basic training at MCRD San Diego he was assigned to the USS Saratoga then transferred to Marine Barracks Navy Yard, Oahu, Pearl Harbor where he was assigned to Navy Yard Police, Naval Intelligence. Tom was standing guard on the dock next to the USS Pennsylvania directly across from "Battleship Row" on the "Day of Infamy," December 7th, 1941 when the Japanese attacked U.S. military forces at Pearl Harbor. The USS Pennsylvania was the flagship of the Pacific Fleet and frequently used by high ranking flag officers and the President.

In 1942 he participated in the Guadalcanal campaign. He went on to fight in the Battles of Bougainville, Pelileu and Okinawa. In 1945 he was transferred to Norfolk, VA then to Washington D.C. where he was assigned to the security of Admiral Chester W. Nimitz's quarters. In 1947 he was transferred to Kodiak, AK then Adak, AK. His follow-on assignments took him to Parris, Island, SC in 1948; Camp Pendleton, CA in 1952 and Korea in 1953 where he saw combat again. Tom was promoted to the highest enlisted rank of Sergeant Major in 1960. During the next 15 months of overseas duty he would cover over 16,000 miles aboard 5 different ships. In 1964 "The Corps" would send the Sgt Major to the place he would call home for the rest of his life, Louisville, Kentucky to serve as a recruiter.

Even after retirement, "The Corps" would not be through with him. In 1967 he was fortunate enough to open the first JROTC program in the United States of America at Seneca High School. It has been the longest running JROTC program in the nation. This was one of his greatest challenges and most rewarding experience. In 1970, after 30 years, Sgt Major Crump retired from The United States Marine Corps, earning what few Marines had ever seen, a 30 year gold pin. The next 36 years saw Tom dedicate his talents to the real estate sales industry.

Tom carried the same devotion that he had for the Marines over to many military and civic organizations. He was Life Member of the Marine Corps League (Kentuckiana Detachment #729) where he devoted many years to community service regarding Veterans and was very involved with the TOYS FOR TOTS program. He was a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Shrine, commonly known as Shriners. He was also a member of the Free Masons since 1951, earning his 60 year pin in 2011.

His devotion to community service was undaunting. One of his greatest passions was service to young people and they adored the Sgt Major in return. He was a beloved friend of the Boy Scouts of America and many other civic organizations. He left his mark on many communities in Kentucky and his home state of Mississippi as a motivational speaker in schools and churches.

Tom enjoyed spending his time at the VFW Post, which was known as his second home where he was a great friend to all. He left his footprints firmly across many communities, the country and THE United States Marine Corps.

Sgt Major, you are wished a speedy return to your Heavenly Father and you will truly be missed. God Bless You.

His service will be 10am Saturday at Owen Funeral Home - Jeffersontown, 9318 Taylorsville Road, with burial in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be 11am-8pm Friday at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Kosair Charities.

Condolences may be shared via the online guestbook at www.owenfuneralhome.com



To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Courier-Journal on Jul. 10, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Crump

Not sure what to say?





Jack Cook

November 3, 2014

Sgt. Major i sure do miss you, you were my second Dad we had many great times together over the years your son Jack, I know you are still the Sgt. Major in charge

Wayne Wiiki

August 28, 2014

Well done Marine. At ease.

The Underwoods

August 26, 2014

Thanks for your service and dedication to this country and for being a kind and giving neighbor, even spending time with our daughters as they worked on projects for school. We were all saddened to learn of your passing, but greatly appreciate the fullness of life you freely shared.

Linda Banion Farrington

August 11, 2014

My Father, SSGT. Robert J. Banion, served with Mr. Crump in The Marine Corps. I called Mr. Crump to tell him of my Father's final orders in February. I enjoyed speaking with him over the past months.They have remained in touch over all these years. I know both Mr. Crump and my Father are in heaven. I'm sure Chesty Puller has rallied his troops once more."Semper Fi", Mr. Crump.

Sincerely,

Linda Banion Farrington

August 5, 2014

Sir, you had an amazing career and life. Thank you for your courageous service to our country. May you rest in peace.

Toccarra Gartin

August 5, 2014

Thank you for starting a JROTC program that changed my life!

Kathy DeCandia

August 5, 2014

R.I P. Sir thank you for your service to our Country.

irene Wallingford

July 31, 2014

Semper Fi from the family of SgtMajor Roger E. Wallingford, FirstMarDiv. You are together again.

David Buckle

July 26, 2014

ooo-rah, sir

Chuck Bauer

July 24, 2014

I am sorry for your loss. Thank you to the Crump family for sharing Sgt Crump with the rest of the community. I met him several times at funerals and community events. It was an honor to share some time with him. He never looked or acted his age in my opinion. When my cousin was killed in Iraq, he was there with the other Marines to support the family. He was a true gentleman and a symbol of what it means to be a Marine. May he rest in peace.

July 21, 2014

Uncle Thomas, Thank you for your Faith in God, your service to our Country and for the wonderful stories you shared with your family in Mississippi over the years. You will be missed and toasted when the Crumps gather together.

Bert Crump

Tim Mason

July 20, 2014

Sgt. Major Crump
Thank you for a lifetime of service to the USMC. Thank you for the sacrifices of your time and talents to many. May you rest safe in the arms of God, knowing that you gave us all the best you had to give. God Bless you sir.

Kim Aunkst

July 18, 2014

God bless him for his service, he was a true hero. God bless his family as they mourn the loss of someone they loved and admired.

Beverly Koehler

July 18, 2014

Thank you for your service and commitment to our country and your community. I look forward to meeting you in Heaven and it will be my honor to shake your hand and thank you in person for all that you have done.

Deanne Kentz

July 18, 2014

Thank you Sgt Major. I would have loved to hear your stories. Your comrades in arms are waiting for you to report for active duty watching over our country once again.

July 18, 2014

Thank you for your service.You will be truly missed by all who have served and are still serving.

Elizabrth Piña

July 17, 2014

Candle will burn for eternity in memory of your service to this country! Amen & Amen

Elizabeth Piña

July 17, 2014

Rest in Gods loving care for eternity, Sir “Tom" Crump My hats off to you forever! Amen & Amen!

Robin Esau Grosshans

July 17, 2014

Rest in Peace SGT Major. Thank you for your service to out country. OORAH!

Elizabeth Piña

July 17, 2014

Rest in Gods loving care for eternity Sir Tom Crump! My hats off to you forever! Amen & Amen!

Samantha

July 17, 2014

Rest in peace & thank you for your service! ???? :)

Emerson Barnum

July 17, 2014

At Ease!

Andi Willman

July 17, 2014

Thank you for your service, Sergeant Major. You are truly an inspiration. Rest easy!

Douglas PALEN SR

July 17, 2014

"SEMPER-FI" RIP..

Marcus Volz

July 16, 2014

Semper Fi Sir, the Gates are now guarded by another great man and Marine.

July 16, 2014

Semper Fi Sgt. Major....a job WELL DONE

Donna Krisrine Lefeber

July 16, 2014

God continue to bless you in his presence. Your story is being shared across the nation by your fellow men. We are grateful for your life of service. Thank you and our deepest sympathy to your family and friends

Denzil Garretson

July 16, 2014

SEMPER FI Sir and thank you for your service

Daniel Jorge

July 15, 2014

I will honor your sacrifice by sharing your story. You will be in the company of another marine who fought in ww2 as well and invaded the islands of okinawa and iwo jima,my father martin jorge.god bless you both

Circa 1940

July 15, 2014

My condolences to both Amy & Kara. Just heard of Thomas' passing today. We all felt a little safer knowing that he was on watch. A true hero with a passion and devotion for our country!
Peggy & Doug Boote

July 14, 2014

Amy and Kara, we only learned today of Uncle Thomas' passing. We are so sorry. He was a fine man and Tom is proud to be his namesake.

Tom and Sandra Stephens

JOHN GIANGRECO

July 14, 2014

SEMPER FI,ANOTHER HERO FROM THE GREATEST GENERATION LEAVES US,A SAD DAY FOR EVERYONE.

Christy Reibert

July 14, 2014

Truely and Honor to know this man. Proud to be his neighbor. I will miss him. RIP Tom.

Christy Reibert

SC Hall

July 14, 2014

SEMPER FIDELIS
Not just a motto but our way of life as Marines. Sgt Major Crump was a true testament to its meaning. I am honored to have met such an oustanding Marine. Truely a God send to not only the Corps but to the community as well. He will truley be missed...
Semper Fidelis.

U.S.Marine Corps

Herb USMC

July 12, 2014

Sgt/Maj. of Marines

Herb USMC

July 12, 2014

ONE of "THE"

Herb USMC

July 12, 2014

WWII

Herb USMC

July 12, 2014

PFC

Herb USMC

July 12, 2014

Dec.7th.

Herb USMC

July 12, 2014

Herb Guyer-Sharfenaker USMC

July 12, 2014

God Bless/RIP,to ALL who served.Thank YOU for your service,Sgt/Maj. Crump. It all started,just like WWII.Dec.7th.1941 at Pearl.Out in 1967. And then at Seneca High School JROTC program...."The Title"-- You can't rent it or buy it. You, are own, and I have earned it, with sweat,blood,and lives.You own it forever..."The Title"--- UNITED STATES MARINE..Semper Fidelis Thomas Crump.

Jonathan Shoults

July 12, 2014

Semper Fidelis Sergeant Major.

Mikel Tyler

July 12, 2014

Rest easy Marine, you are now guarding Heaven's streets.

Donna Gentry

July 11, 2014

Semper Fi Marine. Fair winds and following seas to the detachment in heaven. Thank you for your service to our Nation and Corps. Rest in peace, SgtMaj

Bud Hughes

July 11, 2014

Sergeant Major with his "Marine Corps Tea" will be missed at the Marine Corps League Meetings. We will always have fond memories of time spent together.

July 11, 2014

I am so thankful for your gifts of dedication, love, sincerity, and friendship.You will truly be missed, but never forgotten.Until we meet again in the Golden Gates. Love ya Sgt.Major, your friend Holly

Bebe Wiseman

July 11, 2014

Sgt Major I have only one last comment: Semper Fi
The American Legion GI JOE.Post 244 will miss youm

Bebe Wiseman

July 11, 2014

Sgt Major I have only one last comment: Semper Fi
The American Legion GI JOE.Post 244 will miss youm

July 11, 2014

Sgt Major you were one of the most respected person I ever met. You touched so many lives and was respected by everyone you met. You were a role model to the Marines and all branches of the military. I am going to miss you but you will always be in my heart. Watch over all of us that we may follow by your courage and example.

ROCKY FLOOD

July 11, 2014

This was a great man who I had the honor to study under. I was one of his first cadet at Seneca High School. Thank you for your service and guidance. SEMPER FI SGT.MAJ.

Norman Wemes

July 11, 2014

Sgt. Maj. Crump, it was an honor to have been able to call you a friend. Your patriotism was and inspiration to so many. Good bless you and RIP. SEMPER FI.

chell sorricelli

July 10, 2014

the relationship you built over the years with my son, Steven, I will be forever grateful for. to have known you and been part of your extraordinary life was an honor. you will be forever in our hearts.

July 10, 2014

Thank you

Sue Cook

July 10, 2014

Sgt Major, I will miss your smiling face and your hugs from the VFW Post in Middletown. I have great respect for you. Now you can keep Heaven in order.

Gregory Bethards

July 10, 2014

On behalf of the Board and Members of Chapter 454, Vietnam Veterans of America, we honor SGM Thomas B. Crump, who was a Vietnam-era Veteran and member. Those who served during Vietnam-era share a knowledge and understanding of the uncertainty and ambiguity of war. Though not assigned to service in Vietnam, SGM Grump served his nation in the Marine Corps in two other wars, WWII and Korea. He knew the mixture of relief and disappointment that came when orders arrived that sent some to Vietnam and others to different assignments. He understood the demands that military life made.
On this day, however, we know one thing. SGM Crump has left us. In years gone by many men and women, responding to the call of our nation, answered the summons given and left family and familiar surroundings, people and places loved, to serve in a far off lands, returning home to an uncertain reception. Now SGM Crump has left us once more, answering a roll call we all must face, and as we remember him, trusting that he has found a reception, a homecoming of gentleness, health, peace and love.
One by one, as years roll by, our numbers decrease, and we who survive gather to mark the end of the earthly tour of duty of those who have departed. As we honor the life of one who served our nation, our prayers reach out to all those among us, family and friends, who are bereaved by his passing. May God comfort and console them with his presence and tenderness. May SGM Crump rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Gregory M. Bethards
President
VVA, Chapter 454

new years at vfw

Michelle Page

July 10, 2014

God's speed. I will never forget the kind welcome he gave my son a new marine on a New Years eve night 3 years ago when I was singing there. I was so touched and honored. Wish I had a pic of Kyle and the Sgt. Major

Linda Lincoln

July 10, 2014

It was a true honor to know this man. He had a true Heart and soul with no delay of sharing it with others, a true Inspiration he was! You will be missed greatly.

Mike Coburn

July 10, 2014

I regret I did not know Sgt.Maj. Crump. However, after reading his obit, it is easy to see he was a Marine's Marine. Semper Fi, Top.

Harry Acosta

July 10, 2014

Tom you will be truly missed but your commitment to the community and all veterans will continue. SEMPER FI

Doug and Renee Shields

July 10, 2014

Sergeant Major Crump will be missed by everyone who knew him. His devotion during his career in the USMC and to his friends have earned that. There will always be a missing link at American Legion GI Joe post 244 where he was a member for many years.

Hugh Wade

July 10, 2014

RIP Marine, Semper Fi.

Nancy Prince

July 10, 2014

I am so thankful to have met, been awakened and enlightened to this man. A pure example of being an American and good man. The world has suffered a great loss.

Wayne Shafer

July 10, 2014

Sgt. Major, It was an honor to know you, thank you for your service. R.I.P. my friend.

July 10, 2014

Thank you for your tremendous sacrifice in service to our country. Rest in God's eternal peace. From a grateful American.

Joey Brady

July 10, 2014

Tom ,you were a true friend of mine,,I will surely miss you.God Bless you

patrick bohanan

July 10, 2014

God speed to your next post.
Semper Fi

ED & Doris Peters

July 10, 2014

What A great Marine You will be greatly missed at VFW . Rip tom Crump in Heaven
We will miss your Stories Sgt. Major Crump

Brian Duffy

July 10, 2014

A dedicated Patriot who brightened the lives of many veterans and their families. Your chair may remain empty, but your memories and life lessons will continue to inspire us. Our prayers and condolences, Brian & Jean Duffy

Marvin Meyerhoffer

July 10, 2014

Sgt.Maj. Thomas Crump, you will be missed. I humbly salute. m.

July 10, 2014

Tom, you have touched so many hearts, and we are all hurting now. I treasure having known you, the friendship, and the joy you shared with all of us. RIP dear hero. Semper Fi Sherri

Showing 1 - 70 of 70 results

Make a Donation
in Thomas Crump's name

Memorial Events
for Thomas Crump

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Owen Funeral Home - Jeffersontown

9318 Taylorsville Road, Louisville, KY 40299

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Thomas Crump's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more