William "Duke" Crawford

Mr. William Deria (Duke) Crawford 85, of Peoria passed on Wednesday, May 21, 2014 at UnityPoint Health-Proctor in Peoria. He was born to John L. Crawford and Estelle Joseph Crawford on August 10, 1928 in Marks, MS. He moved to Peoria in 1948 and married Fannie L. Morgan in 1949. William was employed at Altofer Brothers Company and Armour Packing House. He also worked at Heinz Construction Company where he started as a construction worker and later became a supervisor. He retired after 36 years of service. He joined Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in 2002 and served as a deacon until his passing. He is deeply loved and memories will be cherished always by his children and family: Freddie Crawford (Henry) of Lambert, MS; Francine E. Crawford, Linda A. Harris (Jesse) of Rex, GA; Sarah M. Pannell (Jesse) of Batesville, MS; Robin J. Crawford, Julie H. Crawford, Teresa King of Plano, TX, Crystal W. Crawford, Chantel Hinkle and Joannie K. Crawford; Andrew J. Crawford, Robert J. Crawford of Atlanta, GA; Timothy C. Crawford of Minneapolis, MN; Malcolm E. Crawford; Steven G. Crawford and Edsel B. Johnson. Also surviving is one sister, Bertha Lewis of Crenshaw, MS; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. His parents, two sisters and six children preceded him in death. Cremation rites have been accorded with memorial services scheduled for noon Friday, May 30, 2014 at Bethel United Methodist Church, 210 Richard Pryor Place, Peoria. Visitation will begin at 11am and continue until his time of service. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family and condolences may be sent using www.peoriafuneral.com.