Richard H. Crawford

Richard H. Crawford passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on Friday, December 12th. Richard was born June 20, 1929 to Grace and George Crawford in New Rochelle NY. After high school he joined the Marines during the height of the Korean War and served proudly along with his fellow servicemen. His time as a Marine had a huge impact throughout his life.
In 1953, Richard became a patrolman for the Westchester County Parkway Police, which eventually became the Westchester Department of Public Safety. Richard rose in ranks at the department from motorcycle patrolman to Detective Lieutenant where he supervised multiple divisions within the detective unit. His profession as a police officer was his identity even after his retirement in 1988. Richard stayed in contact with the department, fellow officers, and retirees until quite recently.
On June 5, 1960, Richard married the love of his life
Marjorie A. Hawkins in New Rochelle NY. They quickly established roots in Cortlandt Manor where they raised their two daughters Laurie and Janet. Upon his retirement, Richard and Marjorie enjoyed traveling to England and Scotland (numerous times), as well as other locations with their many friends. Richard was a devoted husband to Margie until her passing in the spring of 2021. He made sure to spend as many minutes as he could with her in her final years.
Richard loved his Scottish heritage. From a young age he took up the drums which eventually led to becoming a member of the Yonkers Pipe Band and in later years the Mount Kisco Pipe Band. He served as the Bass Drummer and at times as the Drum Major. Richard also became an expert on Scottish Pipers and authored two books and multiple articles on the subject. Both books are published, used as reference material, and are housed in The Library of Congress.
Richard belonged to the Peekskill Presbyterian Church for many years. He made numerous friends and was often found at the coffee hour after the service chatting with fellow congregants.
Richard was a faithful parishioner attending every Sunday for as long as his health allowed.
He was a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather. If you asked him what his greatest accomplishment was, he would simply say his family. Richard was especially excited to become a great-grandfather and spend time with the youngest generation.
Richard was predeceased by his parents as well as his wife Margie of 61 years. He is survived by his daughters and son-in laws
Laurie and John Foley and Janet and Dan Reidy. He is also survived by his grandchildren Colleen (Marc) Hannon, Timothy Foley, Diana Reidy and Ian Reidy and great grandchildren Emma, Ryan and Anna Hannon.
Richard lived a long life and felt blessed to have so many memories with his family and friends. He was a presence that will be missed by many.