Lester Crawford passed away on October 27, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida, after a brief illness. He was born on November 2, 1937, in Plant City, Florida, and lived a life marked by steady work, devotion to family, and unwaveringfaith.

Lester began his working life at the age of 17, working in the floor covering business, eventually owning his own company. In 1973 after selling his business he moved his family to Union County where he tried his hand at farming. He grew corn, soybeans, wheat and watermelons. He later purchased and ran a sawmill and also took up truck driving. He retired from trucking at the age of 70. Lester worked in many jobs and made countless friends along the way. He enjoyed his work.

He was quiet and reserved, with a dry sense of humor that those who knew him appreciated well. Lester enjoyed working, and when time allowed, he liked fishing and a little hunting. He also loved his church and found special meaning in teaching Sunday school, sharing his faith through service and example.

Above all, Lester was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Ileen Crawford. He is also survived by his children, LaWayne Crawford and his wife, Kay, Donna Metzler and her husband, Mike, David Crawford and his wife, Nina, Dana Crawford and daughter-in-law, Darlene Crawford.

His family circle also includes grandchildren: Carla Arreola (Danny), LeLand Crawford, Zeb Howard (Georgie), Kasey Heilman (Phillip), Shane Metzler (Amanda), James Carter(Brianna), Victoria Kirkman (Eric), Cody King (Ashleigh), Kyle King (Danyelle), Cindy Andrews (Shawn), Carolina Crawford, and Abigail Crawford; along with 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Harmon and Artie Crawford; by his son, Darryl Crawford; and by his great-grandson, Hartley Kirkman.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Providence Village Baptist Church. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor Dax Summerhill officiating. Lester will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Douglass Cemetery.

Lester Crawford will be remembered with love and gratitude for his strong work ethic, his faithful heart, his steady presence, and the enduring example he set for his family.