Mark Crawford

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness.”
2 Timothy 4: 7-8

On Monday, June 13, 2023, our hearts were saddened by the passing of our loved one, Mark Stephen Crawford. God knew best and sent his angels to escort him to his heavenly home to rest peacefully in his Kingdom. He was the son of Pete and Laverne Crawford. He was preceded in death by his brother, Christopher Nathaniel Crawford.

Mark “The Doc” Stephen Crawford was born on August 29th, 1968, in Goochland County, Virginia. At an early age Mark gave his life to Christ and joined Emmaus Baptist Church. Mark served as an usher and was a member of the Emmaus Children’s Choir. Mark graduated from Goochland High School in 1988. Mark was a member of the Goochland High School Band as a Base Drummer. He also played Football and Baseball throughout his high school years. While Mark was attending high school, he worked part time at The Pony Farm in Goochland, VA and at JT Lacey as a lawnmower technician.

Mark attended J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College for two years, where he studied automotive technician. After graduation, he was employed at Henrico County Public Schools System for 35 dedicated years. Mark began his career journey as a Custodian Worker at Mills Goodwin High School and then at Short Pump Middle School as a Custodian Day Supervisor. Mark’s remarkable leadership and contributions to Henrico County Public Schools System led to his success as becoming the Maintenance Supervisor of the Facilities, Construction and Maintenance Equipment Repair Shop. Mark retired in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and innovation.

Mark had several talents and hobbies. At an early age, he enjoyed riding dirt bikes and four wheelers through the country trails behind his parents’ residence. He often would cut down trees that were standing in his way, so he could continue to ride. Mark would often find junk cars in the woods and was able to get them up and running so that he could enjoy riding with his brother and uncle. Mark collected Diecast Model Cars and had a gun collection. As he got older, Mark had his own Dump Truck and Tractor where he took upon various jobs. Mark was nothing short of a legend in the garage, he would often use his welding machine to fabricate his own tools. To many people Mark was known as “The Doc”, “Master”, and “Chief”. He was a kind and loving person, always putting his Family first. He was always willing to help others no matter the need whether it was big or small. Mark truly had a heart of gold.

Lastly, Mark had a deep passion for Drag Racing. He thoroughly enjoyed being the mechanic and building engines for the many race cars that his brother raced and they also owned together. They would often stay up all night, the night before going to the racetrack. Mark and his brother owned, a Chevy Nova and Chevy Camaro. Up until God called Mark home, he was working on an engine that he called “The Beast”. The Legacy of “Crawford Brother’s Racing” will continue.

Mark leaves to cherish his memories a loving and devoted wife of 30 years, Velma Crawford. A devoted family, two daughters, Briana Crawford, and Brittany Crawford; Parents, Pete and Laverne Crawford; one brother Calvin Crawford Sr, one nephew Calvin Crawford Jr, a great niece Kamarri Crawford and two devoted uncles Thomas Crawford and Roger Harris. He leaves a host of aunts, uncles, other relatives, and friends.

We’ll always remember that special smile, that caring heart, that warm embrace you always gave us. You were the best husband and father to us. We will always remember you because there will never be another one to replace you in our hearts and the love we will always have for you. -Velma, Briana, Brittany