Robert “Bruce” Crawford

Bruce Crawford passed away peacefully at his home in Hendersonville, North Carolina, on September 17, 2025. He was born on October 29, 1931, in Enka, North Carolina, to Frank James and Opal Bryson Crawford. On August 13, 1960, Bruce married the love of his life, Mary Joyce English Crawford.

After brief stays in Largo, Florida, and Wilmington, North Carolina, the Crawfords returned to Western North Carolina in 1973, making Hendersonville their permanent home. Once there, both Bruce and Joyce became devoted and active members of French Broad Baptist Church.

A proud native of North Carolina, Bruce pursued higher education with dedication and purpose. He graduated from Mars Hill College and later earned his degree from Wake Forest University. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a long and successful career. Bruce served his country honorably as a Sergeant in the United States Army during the Korean conflict. His service reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to others—values that continued to define his life.

Following his military service, Bruce began a distinguished 36-year career with General Electric. His strong work ethic and loyalty earned him the respect of colleagues throughout his tenure until his retirement. Bruce was a devoted father to his sons, David Crawford and Brent Crawford, and his family remained his greatest source of pride and joy. He also found fulfillment in his longtime service to the Boy Scouts of America as Scoutmaster of Troop 604 in Hendersonville.

Bruce is survived by his sons, David Bruce Crawford and wife Sharon, and Melvin Brent Crawford and wife Susanne; grandchildren Luke, Grace, Morgan (and husband Jeffrey Warren), Rachel, and Erin Crawford; and nieces and nephews Scott Crawford, Brooke Crawford, Diane Ledford Hallingse, Roy Ledford Jr., Pam English Gregg, and Eric English; along with a host of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce English Crawford; his parents, Frank James and Opal Bryson Crawford; and his brother Edward Crawford. The Crawford family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers, the “Golden Girls” —Tracy Jackson, Jean Orr, Sonia Borden, Cindy Goheen, and Beverly Axen—as well as Senior Helpers Home Care and Four Seasons Hospice Care for their compassion and support.

May the memory of Bruce Crawford bring comfort to all who knew him and stand as a lasting tribute to a life well lived. A service in his honor will be held 3:00 PM, Saturday, September 20, 2025, at French Broad Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church beginning at 2:00 PM. Shuler Funeral Home is honored to assist the Crawford family with his arrangements.