John Earl Croft

John Earl Croft, 53, of Goodview, Va., slipped peacefully from this earth on Tuesday, February 3, 2009, wrapped in the loving arms of his wife, Mary Barfield Croft, formerly of Vinton and his devoted sister, Patricia Croft-Robertson, of Bedford. John also leaves behind his precious daughter, Jennifer Croft, of Southern Shores, N.C., whom he considered the greatest achievement of his life. Along with Mary, Patricia and her husband, Matt and Jennifer, John will be sorely missed by his sisters, Janet Overstreet, of Bedford, Nancy Woolwine, of Roanoke; and his brother, Christopher Croft, of Salem. Also left to cherish his memory are his stepchildren, Aaron Quinley, Sarah Quinley and Kenneth Owen, all of Roanoke; as well as grandchildren, Kaelan Quinley, Olivia Powell and Cortland Owen, who have given him reason for living these past few years. He spent the last two years with his grandchildren enjoying the birds and showing them the beauty of nature at their home at Pleasure Point. John has also left behind a host of nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles who love him as well as many friends. John was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Oakey Croft and Cecil Ruth Updike Croft, a native of Huddleston. John was employed at Bio-Medic Health, Inc. in Roanoke where he felt like a part of their family. John and Mary were supported by so many people during his four year battle with cancer. They are especially grateful to Mary's sister, DaEva Copperman and her husband, Lance, for their love and support and two beautiful summers at Ocean Isle, N.C. Special thanks to their neighbors at Pleasure Point and Mary's co-workers at Stewartsville Elementary School for their help and companionship during this time. The family will receive friends Thursday beginning at 6 p.m. and a memorial service will follow at 7:30 p.m. in the chapel of Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.