It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the loss of our beloved husband, father, son, and brother, Jeffrey Wade Crawford, affectionately known to many as “Crawdad.”

Jeffrey Wade Crawford, 54, of Willow Springs, North Carolina, passed away on April 14, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family.

Jeff was born on May 24, 1971, in Jacksonville, Florida. He spent his early years in Sanford, Florida, before moving to Cary, North Carolina, where he graduated from Cary High School. During his time there, he was a proud member of the marching band, playing the tuba.

Jeff honorably served his country as a machinist on the USS Ponce LPD 15, U.S. Navy from 1991- 1995. While the Navy wasn’t his lifelong calling, he looked back fondly on the experiences and travel. Following his service, he built a life and career rooted in craftsmanship and dedication. In 2016, he founded JC Carpentry, where he specialized in interior custom carpentry. Jeff had a true passion for woodworking, especially the fine details associated with built in shelves/ bookcases, custom trim, intricate ceiling designs, and the kind of craftsmanship that made his work stand out. But he wasn’t just about the details; he could easily throw up a deck, shed, or garage that was just as impressive. No matter what the project, Jeff took pride in doing it right. His talent and eye for detail earned him recognition and respect throughout the community, including contributions to homes featured in the Raleigh Parade of Homes.

Above all, Jeff was devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving parents, Carroll and Linda Crawford; his beloved wife, Tricia; his son, Wade; his sisters, Angie and Heather (Dennis); along with his father in-law Benson Perrie, brothers in-law Joe (Shellie), Matt, John (Marie) nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Harold and Margaret, and his maternal grandparents, Charles and Sylvia.

In his free time, Jeff found joy in simple things. He loved working on his old truck and spending hours in the yard restoring vehicles with his son, Wade, passing down his knowledge of mechanics and engines. He was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan and a passionate UNC Tar Heels fan, rarely missing a game. Jeff especially loved fishing, spending hours by the water and camping at Carolina Beach with Tricia and Wade.

Jeff was a quiet soul with a big heart. He loved deeply and showed it through his actions, his work, and his unwavering dedication to those closest to him. He will be remembered for his kindness, his craftsmanship, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.

Memorial services for Jeffrey Wade Crawford Sr. will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at the Rose & Graham Funeral Home Chapel, located at 301 W. Main Street, Benson, NC 27504. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM, followed by the service at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jeff’s memory to a local cancer support organization or hospice that provides care and comfort to families facing cancer.

Arrangements are made by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson.