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David Wayne Crabtree, a beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on November 8, 2025, at the age of 66, in Mathis, Texas. David was born on April 4, 1959, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to Joseph and Dorothy Crabtree.
David is reunited with his mother, Dorothy Paschal Crabtree; brother, Joseph Patrick Crabtree; and his ex-wife, Karen Crabtree.
David is survived by his only daughter, Stephanie Crabtree-Porteous and her husband, Randall Porteous. He will also be grieved by his father, Joseph Frank Crabtree; his brother, Troy Crabtree and his son, Mason; his brother, Billy Crabtree and his daughter, Cameo; nephew, Joseph James Crabtree along with his wife, Crystal and their son, Joey, and niece, Shasta Crabtree. David also embraced the upcoming joy of becoming a grandfather with the impending arrival of his baby granddaughter, due next year.
David graduated from Sharpstown High School in 1977, and continued to work with his father in construction. He worked most of his life as a master carpenter, and knew everything there was to know in construction. He was an excellent craftsman, and made a number of furniture items for those he loved. He was also a great fisherman and loved to get a boat on the water and throw the rod out. He loved music, and could always be seen playing air-guitar, air-drums, or even air-piano to a song, whether it was in his head or blaring on his large box speakers.
In his final years, David absolutely loved sitting on the patio in Lakeside, watching the water of Lake Mathis, and enjoying every single sunset it had to offer. He also enjoyed walking out from under the oak trees to gaze up at the stars, or marveling at the full moon when it was at its brightest. He made the most of his retirement appreciating these simple pleasures in this way.
David never met a stranger, always being kind and cracking jokes to anyone he met. He was the best father, always being there for and showing unwavering support for his daughter in all of her endeavors. Upon meeting David, you might think he was a tough guy, but he really wore his heart on his sleeve and was very sentimental.
As we celebrate David's life, we will carry his spirit within us - his laughter echoing in our hearts and his love warming our souls. He represented the best of what it means to show unconditional love, and his legacy will endure through the lives he touched. Rest now, David, knowing you have left an enduring mark upon this world.
Family and friends will gather to remember David at 12 PM on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Winsteads' Funeral Home, where a Memorial Service will follow that same afternoon at 1 PM.
For those who wish to express their condolences, you are welcome to send flowers or sympathy gifts directly to the family using the button provided below. Additionally, you may share your heartfelt condolences with the family below by adding an entry on the online guest book.
Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads' Funeral Home. 361-547-3224 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
121 N Duval St, Mathis, TX 78368
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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