David Crawford

David Richard Crawford, 84, of Payne, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 3, 2023 at his home.

David was born in Payne on December 9, 1938, a son of the late Izabelle (Zartman) & James Crawford.

David was very proud of his military service. With his parents permission, at the age of 17 he enlisted in the US Navy and served for 4 years. On completion of his duty in the Navy, David then enlisted with the US Army and served in Vietnam for three tours. In the Army he was promoted to Sergeant and was in charge of his own platoon. He selflessly volunteered himself as a "tunnel rat," dangerously maneuvering through the many tunnels used for combat in Vietnam. He was also a part of a 5 man observation team that would venture on their own for long periods of time, scouting for enemy soldiers, and messaging back to the rest of their team on what they found. David also served time with the German Army, where they taught him winter warfare techniques and patrolling on skis. David was awarded numerous metals for his bravery, and his family, friends and neighbors are grateful for his service. After the army, he went on to work for Pawnee Plastic as a dispatcher, and later also drove semi-truck. In his spare time he also enjoyed woodworking. Above all, David loved God and his family, and showed every one of them love and respect. 

He will be sadly missed by his wife Juleen (Bass); step-children, Melvin (Jan) Crawford, Rev. DeVon Davis, & Douglas (Sherry) Crawford; grandchildren, Rachel (Josh) Rager, Jarrett Davis, Ben Crawford, Leah Ross, Martin Crawford, Melanie Galaway, & Ryan Davis; great grandchildren, Thea, Donohue, Clark, Keegan, Kamden, Gabriel, Elva, Eleanore, & Theodore; & niece, Kari Lynn. 

David was also preceded in death by his siblings, Melvin Sr., Mildred, Harriet, Sherry, & Joyce; & grandson, Melvin, III. 

His memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 10:30 AM with visitation one hour prior at the Payne Church of the Nazarene. 

He will be laid to rest in Wiltsie Cemetery with Military Honors. 

Memorials may be made to the Payne Church of the Nazarene. 

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com

FLOWERS AND OTHER TRIBUTES MAY BE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH ON TUESDAY FROM 10:30 TO 3:00 OR WEDNESDAY FROM 8:30 AM TO 9:30 AM.