Eric Deion Crutcher

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Eric Deion Crutcher. A bright light, Eric's smile and unconditional love touched everyone he met. Eric left this world too soon, but his legacy of kindness, compassion, and joy will forever be etched in our hearts.

Eric, born on Wednesday, March 13, 1996, in Columbus, OH, was a beacon of positivity and inspiration. He lived with an unwavering belief in the goodness of others, and his extraordinary gift of seeing beauty where others might see flaws was a constant source of encouragement. His positivity and unwavering belief in the goodness of others lifted countless spirits. Eric's heart was as big as his smile, and his laughter was contagious. His warm and genuine hugs and his comforting presence were always there to lift others up, never wanting to see anyone down or sad.

A 2015 graduate of Northland HS in Columbus, OH, Eric graduated with a Heating and Cooling Certificate from Goodwill Industries' adaptive learning program the same year.

Eric, a cherished son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, returned to his Heavenly Father on Sunday, January 19, 2025. He was preceded in death by his mother, Terica Brown; his grandparents, Darlene Brown, Grady Coffee, Josephine and William Crutcher; sister, Victoria Shawntell Shaffree Brown, aunts, Shavale Crutcher and Helen Crutcher; and uncles, Larry Crutcher and Thomas Crutcher.

Leaving to cherish his memory are Eric's devoted aunts who served as caregivers: Nicole (Antwan) Horston, Priscilla Coffee and Bridget (Sixto) Rodriguez; his devoted father, Jeffrey Taylor and James Crutcher; brother, Antwan J. Horston, and grandmother, Lillie Coffee. Lasting memories also live on in the hearts of aunts and uncles: Monique Coffee, Sherry (Carl) Wilkerson, Jacquline (Paul) Mack, Linda Arnold, Brenda Crutcher, Michael Coffee, Jamelle Coffee, Howard (Peggie) Crutcher, and Howell Crutcher, as well as a host of cousins, dear friends, and parishioners of Peace Fellowship Church, where Eric was a member.

While Eric's absence leaves a void that can never be filled, his family and loved ones find comfort in the enduring legacy he leaves behind. Eric's light continues to shine in the hearts of all who knew him. He cherished life's simple joys-spending time with his family and friends, shopping, singing and dancing. His legacy is one of love, faith, and hope, and it serves as a reminder to all of us to see the good in others, just as he did every day.

Eric's life will be celebrated on Saturday, February 1, at 11:00 a.m. at Providence Baptist Church, 112 W 6th Street, Mansfield, OH 44903. The service will include a Visitation at 10:00 a.m. and a repast following the Homegoing in the Fellowship Hall. Food donations can be dropped off at the church on the day of the service starting at 9 am. Please enter the church from the parking lot and enter the Fellowship Hall.

In honor of his generous spirit, the family requests that, in place of flowers, monetary contributions, no matter the size, will go directly toward funeral expenses and ensure that Eric's memory is honored in the best way possible. If you feel moved to give, donations can be made via PayPal: getNstep@outlook.com directly on the PayPal link. Or, via Cash App: $getNstep.