MIchael Richard "Mike" Crowson

Michael "Mike" Richard Crowson, a beloved husband, devoted father, and cherished "Papa", ran into the arms of his Jesus on March 23, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on December 8, 1956, in Benton, Arkansas, Mike was the son of the late Clarence and Dorothy Bryant Crowson. He left this world in the serene comfort of his home, surrounded by family and overlooking the cherished lake that brought him so much joy, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma.



Mike's life was a testament to faith, dedication, resilience, and quiet strength. He graduated as class president from Benton High School in 1976, setting the tone for a life filled with leadership and commitment. Shortly after, he began his remarkable 45-year career with Arkla Gas, which later became CenterPoint Energy. A testament to his unwavering work ethic, Mike missed only five days of work during his entire career, leaving a legacy of diligence and reliability that inspired all who knew him.



On June 6, 1981, Mike married the love of his life, Karen Moore, and together they built a family rooted in love and faith. Their 45-year marriage was a beacon of devotion and partnership, bearing witness to countless cherished memories. Together, they raised two beautiful daughters, Angie Johnson and Chelsea Jones, who were his pride and joy. Mike's family expanded with the addition of his son-in-law, Matthew, and his adored grandchildren, Elijah and Camille, who will always remember how much their "Papa" loved them. He is also survived by his sisters, Cindy Crowson, Trena Smith, and Alita Crowson, who shared in the joy and laughter that marked his days.



Mike was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words carried weight and wisdom. His presence was felt not in grand gestures, but in the quiet, selfless acts of service that defined his life. For more than 30 years, he was an active member of First Baptist Benton, helping with the student ministry and participating in many mission trips, before finding a new church home at Balboa Baptist Church in Hot Springs Village, where he was loved by all who knew him. There, he poured his heart into the Disaster Relief team and the beloved Beach Reach ministry, crafting crosses to share the gospel-a gentle testament to his deep faith and his love for others to know the Jesus he loved so well.


After his retirement, Mike found solace in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing off the dock, drinking coffee on the deck overlooking the lake, and took great joy in tending to everything at the lake house-a place that echoed with laughter and love. "Papa" especially enjoyed taking his grandchildren on boat rides around the lake and attending their swim meets, softball games, and various other events. He was their most ardent supporter, cheering them on with pride and love.



Mike's journey on this earth will be celebrated with a visitation on March 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton, and a celebration of life service on March 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Balboa Baptist Church, with visitation held one hour prior.



In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Arkansas Baptist State Convention "Beach Reach," 10 Remington Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204, and to Balboa Baptist "Disaster Relief" 415 Ponce de Leon Drive, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas 71909 -ministries close to Mike's heart that reflect his lifelong commitment to spreading the hope of Jesus.



Though he is no longer with us, Mike's memory will forever reside in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, faith, and quiet strength will continue to inspire and guide his family until they are reunited once again.



Guestbook at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.