Opal R. Crawford

Opal R. Crawford, nee Campbell, 95, of Fairview Heights, Illinois, born Saturday, May 8, 1926, in Granby, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at Parkway Gardens Assisted Living in Fairview Heights, Illinois.

Opal was the youngest in a family of 8 children headed by a Baptist preacher. Her young life was one where the household was required to move to different small cities around Southwest Missouri. Growing up in the Depression, she also learned thrift and fortitude. These early life experiences prepared her to become a wife and mother as described in Proverbs 31. Her life was emblematic of what it meant to be a member of “The Greatest Generation.”

Opal was a member of Winstanley Baptist Church in Fairview Heights, Illinois for over 70 years. She served there as pianist, Sunday School teacher, and kitchen helper. Opal’s favorite times were spent with her family and friends. She was loved beyond measure and was known for her helpfulness and kindness.

Opal was preceded in death by her:

• Husband: Donald W. Crawford
• Parents: J.M. and Cynthia (nee Lewis) Campbell
• Sisters: Catherine and Lena Mae
• Brothers: James, Lannis, George, Lewis, and Maurice

Surviving are her:

• Children
  • Don C. Crawford
  • Paul A. (Carol) Crawford
  • Cindy A. (John) Franke
• Grandchildren
  • Ross (Katie) Franke
  • Laura (Patrick) Peterson
  • Sarah Crawford
  • Elizabeth Crawford
• Loving nieces and nephews
• Great grandchildren
  • Oliver and Miles Franke
  • Barrett and Casey Peterson

Memorials: Memorials may be made to Winstanley Baptist Church in Fairview Heights, Illinois.

Visitation: Visitation from 9:00 – 11:00 am, Monday, June 14, 2021 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, Illinois.

Funeral: Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, June 14, 2021 at Kurrus Funeral Home, with Dr. Timothy Gibson officiating. Interment will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, Illinois.