Rocky Crawford
Obituary
He passed away peacefully at 12:51 a.m. on January 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. A deeply faithful man, his life was rooted in devotion, service, and an unwavering commitment to his beliefs. His faith was not only something he practiced, but something he lived—quietly, consistently, and with genuine humility.
Known as a friend to everyone he met, he possessed a rare ability to make others feel seen, heard, and valued. He was the person people turned to in moments of uncertainty, hardship, or need—always ready to listen, to help, and to offer guidance without judgment. His generosity of spirit and steadfast reliability made him a pillar within his family, church, and community.
He was especially devoted to being a positive role model for the youth of his church, leading by example and dedicating his time to nurturing their growth in faith, character, and compassion. Through his words and actions, he taught the importance of kindness, integrity, and service to others. His influence extended far beyond formal roles, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives through simple acts of care and quiet leadership.
He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his open heart, and the profound sense of comfort he brought to those around him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he so freely gave.
Timeline
1959
March 22nd
Birth
Rocky Crawford was born to Betty Joiner and Marvin Crawford.
Baptist Hospital in Knoxville, TN
1979
Job at Rec Center
Rocky worked at Family Recreation as Manager for Clay York. During his time at Family Rec Rocky refined his skills at Pool. He even learned how to master the Snooker Table. Many visitors challenged and lost playing with Rocky. There were many arcade games, Bingo games and pinball machines. Rocky gladly handled all the Public Relations while at work and the business grew every year. On the strictly business side, he maintained all the different games and even arranged to have felt on the pool tables replaced when needed. On the humorous side while at Family Recreation Rocky gained an unusual skill. When it came time to empty the quarters out of the machines, patrons would challenge his skills of converting the quarter count into dollars and cents. There was even a bet or two. He never l
1980
September
Rocky Meets Loretta Earnhart
Rocky and Lori met in Panama City Florida. Their mothers worked for the company, Stanley Home Products and had won vacations for their families. On the last day of their vacation the company had arranged a dinner on Captain Anderson Dinner Boat for all the families. In the slide show there is a picture of a man dancing with a little girl, behind them you will see Rocky talking to a girl. That was the exact moment they met for the first time. The photo was quite by accident. Rocky was an avid scuba diver and later that night he left to become certified in cave diving. Over the next few months Rocky and Lori took turns driving from Ohio to Tennessee, Tennessee to Ohio. Lots of phone calls and letters later, Lori moved to Tennessee to take a job at Knoxville Adaptive Education Center in Bearden. By Christmas they were engaged.
Panama City, Florida
1981
April 25th
Wedding
Rocky and Lori were married at Bellbrook Church of Christ by Robert Fuller. They moved into Lori's attic apartment at Williams Farm on Prater Lane in Concord, TN.
Bellbrook, OH
1982
April 1st
Birth of the First Child
Michael Robert Marvin Crawford was born at 5:29pm.
1982
August
First Major Knee Surgery
Rocky was at Brent Thornell's home jumping on a trampoline, playing King of the hill. Of course, there was an accident and Rocky was taken to Parkwest Hospital. The ER doctors told him it wasn't bad, put a split on him and sent him home. The next day he went to see the orthopedic surgeon who informed him, "I'm going to cut you from ear lobe to ass hole to repair this knee." He had snapped everything but the main artery and nerve up the back side of his knee. Six week later we went back to the doctor office to have the cast removed. The waiting room was filled with people, but no one with a cast on. Now this cast went from his toes up to his groin with a 45 bend at his knee. He went to find a seat. As soon as he sat down the guy beside him wanted to know what he had to have repaired. Rocky
1986
Rec Center Moves to Nashville
The time came for Clay to move his business to Nashville. Rocky was encouraged to move with them. He spent 9 months building the business there before deciding Nashville was not for him or his family. Shortly after leaving Family Recreation in Nashville the business folded. No one could take his place.
Nashville, TN
1987
Job in Scuba Dive Retail
The next few years he worked at a Scuba Dive shop where he updated his diving equipment and purchased everything Lori needed to go diving as well. Lori had to take scuba diving lessons. In June of 1987 Lori did her check out dive and became certified to scuba dive. Just in time to discover Lori was expecting. Rocky left the dive shop to take a different job.
1988
March 1st
Job at RC Cola
Rocky went to work for RC Cola driving a delivery truck. He drove to every Mom & Pop store in East Tennessee, all the way to the Virginia and North Carolina state lines. Everybody loved him. If he was a little behind, they were calling to check on him not their order. Several would keep their store open until he arrived.
1988
December 22nd
Birth of Second Child
Roxan Susanna Rose Crawford was born at 11:59pm. She was the first twin born.
1988
December 23rd
Birth of Third Child
Joshua Earnest Henry Crawford was born at 12:03pm. He was the second twin born at the same time, but on a different day.
1989
Job at Maintenance Technologies
Rocky went to work with Maintenance Technologies an HVAC company that designed, built and installed HVAC systems. Mike Hazelwood is the reason Rocky got the job. Mike helped mentor Rocky throughout his time at Maintenance Tech. Mike, Kim, Mary Beth, and Tommy became part of our family. We all grew up together sharing activities, church, meals and sledding in the snow storm of 1990.
1993
Job at Team Air Distributing
Rocky went to work for Team Air Distributing. While taking care of the warehouse and working with the many HVAC techs and installers the Bryant, Team Air primary product decided to sponsor cars racing in Nascar. Car # 77 driven by Bobby Hillin and # 14 driven by John Andretti. From that moment on Rocky became excited about collecting Nascar model cars, cards, and any other merchandise he could find.
Knoxville, TN
1994
Nascar Hobby and the Start of Collecting
Some of his favorite drivers were Dale Earnhardt in the Goodwrench #3 car; Kyle Petty in the Mello Yellow #42 car; Mark Martin in the Valvoline # 1 car; Ricky Rudd in the Tide car #5 in 1992 and # 10 in 1996; Jeff Gordon in the Dupont #21 car. First it was cars that race; then Matchbox cars; McDonald cars in Happy Meals. He has collected cards of race drivers, baseball players, a few football players, and kid safety cards. If there was a mail order offer, he sent for it. He even had phones. Then along came the internet…… Now the secret was out. Companies had produced a lot more of these items then anyone could know. He stopped collecting.
1996
Leaving Team Air Distributing
After a few years Rocky was offered the position his boss at Team Air was in. This position would require Rocky to be gone traveling weeks at a time. He couldn’t stay in the position he was if because they were moving the warehouse out of the area. After we discussed it he turned down the position so he could be home every night with his family. On the job hunt again.
2003
The Computer Handyman Was Born
We have a new neighbor. The Peyrot family moved just up the road from the Crawfords. Steve learned Rocky was job hunting and after getting to know him a little, Steve shared the company he worked for, MTS, was looking for someone. Rocky fit right in. As they worked together Steve expanded Rocky’s knowledge on computers and software. With in a year Rocky was building custom computers for families. A skill that would serve him and his family well
2010
June 31st
Daughter's Wedding
Rocky Crawford was there to walk his only daughter down the aisle for her wedding. This day and the love the both of them shared with each other will always be a lasting memory for Rocky and for Roxan.
2012
March
Meeting a New Lifelong Friend
A new neighbor moved into the house behind Rocky and Lori. Jordan became a great friend to Rocky and very soon became part of the family.
2012
December 24th
First Heart Attack pt.1
Just before midnight, Rocky sent Christmas wishes to every contact he had and crawled into bed. An hour later he woke Lori saying his back really hurt. He was sure he had done something to put his back out. He had Lori pushing on his back to try to put it back in place. When that didn’t work, he paced the floor. When Lori suggested they go to the hospital he strongly declined. They had no medical coverage at the time. The pain slowly started to ease off so he hung in there deciding he didn’t need to go. When he finally agreed to “go let them check him out” Lori hit the floor running but stopped just long enough to tell their oldest Michael what was happening and where they were going. For the first time in years all three of their children were home for Christmas.
Parkwest Medical Center
2012
December 25th
First Heart Attack pt.2
As Lori drove Rocky to be “checked out” Michael dressed. When Joshua appeared at the refrigerator, something to eat, Michael asked if he was ready? Ready for what? To go to the hospital, dad’s having a heart attack. Joshua dressed and they both raced to the emergency room. Meanwhile at the hospital Rocky was “feeling better” and didn’t think he needed to be seen and was sitting in the waiting room trying to decide what to do. Lori sat waiting. When Rocky saw both boys run into the room looking confused. He jumped up and went to make a cup of coffee. The boys went straight to Lori asking, very quietly, “What is going on?” He has decided he feels better. If I say anything or try to push him to be seen, it will not happen.
Parkwest Medical Center
2012
December 25th
First Heart Attack pt.3
Michael, who had a way with Rocky suggested, “Since we’re here, why don’t you let them check you out, you know, since you’re here?” After Joshua joined in Rocky decided he would let them check him out but then he was going home. Back he went and into a room. The nurses came in and out for the next several hours testing his blood for the enzyme to show up proving he had had a heart attack. Meanwhile they were able to stabilize him. 3 separate blood tests were run before the enzyme showed up. The doctor, who had been in and out through the night, had gone off shift, now the nursing staff was going through shift change. Rocky felt good enough he wanted to go home. The nurses kept putting him off saying it was shift-change and he needed to wait. The boys kept encouraging him to wait calmly
Parkwest Medical Center
2012
December 25th
First Heart Attack pt.4
The boys kept encouraging him to wait calmly. Finally shift change was complete and the new attending doctor walked into the room announcing Mr. Crawford you have had a heart attack, and we are moving you upstairs to a room until the surgeon can arrive. Rocky looked surprised and asked her to repeat what she just said, and she did. She then added since it was Christmas day and Rocky was stable the surgeon was going to be here the day after Christmas allowing him to be with his family. However, he was going to stay at the hospital until the surgeon came in. As they got Rocky ready to move, Lori told the boys to go home, get some sleep and she would let them know what room Rocky was moved too. They could come later to see him and did with a small Christmas tree and gifts.
Parkwest Medical Center
2013
Road to Recovery
The medications prescribed to him had adverse effects on how he felt. From 2013 till about 2018, Rocky was still able to work from home selling of some of his collection as well as building custom computers. Rocky didn’t hold a traditional job. He spent a lot of time recovering date or photos for families from computers that had crashed. God had provided skills and products for Rocky to use to support his family.
2016
Changing Doctors
When Rocky’s surgeon retired, he was referred to Doctor Krisle. Rocky was several years out from his heart attack and had stopped taking several of his prescriptions. Dr. Krisle ran several tests on Rocky’s heart. After seeing Rocky multiple times, he performed a number of tests that allowed him to get a detailed look at Rocky’s heart. He declared he could not find any permanent damage to his heart. After some changes to his medications, he began to return to his old self.
2019
Return to the Workforce - Job at Ted Russell Ford
Rocky returned to the work force taking a job at Ted Russell Ford. He was back to meeting and greeting customers again. He especially liked the young man who worked beside him. They remain friends to this day. During his work at Ted Russell, Rocky was able to purchase a Ford 150 long bed truck at a fantastic price. No loan needed.
2022
Job at Innovating Roofing
Jordan worked for a roofing company and believed Rocky could be a real asset for this company. He convinced the owner to meet Rocky. She decided to give Rocky a chance. Rocky did take the job with Innovative Roofing in the truck he had just acquired.
2024
Job at Rescue Roofing TN
Jordan, his friend, split off to open his own business and asked Rocky to come work for him. Rocky was the project coordinator for the jobs and worked with the clients to ensure the job was completed to their satisfaction. Rocky worked alongside with Carlos. Carlos was "The Man" at getting the job done while Rocky supported him however he needed.
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January 26, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers.
January 20, 2026
When we graduated in 1977, me & my boyfriend Gary , took Rocky to P. Forge with us!! We stayed all weekend, had a Great time. We remained friends! He worked on my computer couple times. He helped organize all our 77 reunions. Such a Great man & Great friend!!!
January 19, 2026
It’s hard for me to find the right words to talk about Mr. Rocky. He was only in my life for a short time when I was a child, but he is someone I will never forget. I didn’t call Mr. Rocky my friend—he was my buddy. He was one of the few people I truly listened to, believed in, and trusted.
Today, I think of him as the greatest example of what a real Christian man looks like, and the first man I ever saw openly and genuinely love his wife.
Every Sunday and Wednesday, I would run to find Mr. Rocky just to get one of his huge bear hugs. There was something about his hugs that instantly made you feel loved, even when the world around you didn’t.
His infectious joy and his love for the Lord were unlike anything I had ever seen before. He wasn’t fake. He didn’t lie. He practiced what he preached. I was always excited to see Mr. Rocky because he was always getting into something wild, and I couldn’t wait to hear all about it.
One of my fondest memories is when he won that old Volkswagen Beetle off the radio and drove it to church. Us kids would have to get behind it and push so he could pop the clutch and get it started. We’d chase him, wave, and scream goodbye as we laughed and watched him drive away.
I am thankful for the role he played in that chapter of my life, and I will always be grateful to the Crawford family for sharing him.
Today, I think of him as the greatest example of what a real Christian man looks like, and the first man I ever saw openly and genuinely love his wife.
Every Sunday and Wednesday, I would run to find Mr. Rocky just to get one of his huge bear hugs. There was something about his hugs that instantly made you feel loved, even when the world around you didn’t.
His infectious joy and his love for the Lord were unlike anything I had ever seen before. He wasn’t fake. He didn’t lie. He practiced what he preached. I was always excited to see Mr. Rocky because he was always getting into something wild, and I couldn’t wait to hear all about it.
One of my fondest memories is when he won that old Volkswagen Beetle off the radio and drove it to church. Us kids would have to get behind it and push so he could pop the clutch and get it started. We’d chase him, wave, and scream goodbye as we laughed and watched him drive away.
I am thankful for the role he played in that chapter of my life, and I will always be grateful to the Crawford family for sharing him.
January 17, 2026
Rocky was the oldest grandchild and led the way for the rest of us grandchildren. I have many memories of Sundays and holidays (especially Christmas) shared around the living room with our families at mammaw and pappaw’s house as we were growing up. I know he had many friends and will be missed by all of his family and friends. I loved the story of kids coming over and asking if Rocky could come out to play, when he was the father, not the child. That’s who he was! He cared about people and loved on them. I will miss him as the leader of the grandkids! Now he’s with his parents, my parents, our grandparents, aunts and uncles and many other relatives in the presence of our Lord and Savior. Rest in peace dear cousin!
January 17, 2026
I met Rocky ten years ago at a networking event held at a mansion in Arizona. I was managing the event, and Rocky attended, polite, kind, and quietly observant. He was there because he was working to patent a piece of equipment he had designed. What stayed with me wasn’t the invention, but him: his gentle way of speaking, his quirkiness, his kindness, and his calm, thoughtful energy.
Over the years, he watched my life from afar. Every once in a while, he would check in on Facebook. He was never intrusive and always respectful. Just present.
Recently, he reached out again. This time, he wanted to talk about his son, Joshua. He asked if I was single. What followed was the most heartfelt three-hour conversation, essentially an interview to see if I might be a good match for his son. It was sweet and very Rocky.
We talked about family, manners, creativity, innovation, values, and how a person moves through the world. When I told him I had found a boyfriend, he did not hesitate or withdraw. He simply wished me happiness and good luck.
The last thing he said to me, around Christmas, stays with me deeply.
“You’re always in my prayers.”
Then he offered a metaphor I will never forget.
“Think of life like a sailboat. With the wind at your back, you’re always moving forward.”
He asked me when I would make it to Tennessee so we could meet again. I said, “Soon.”
Rocky is always in my heart.
Over the years, he watched my life from afar. Every once in a while, he would check in on Facebook. He was never intrusive and always respectful. Just present.
Recently, he reached out again. This time, he wanted to talk about his son, Joshua. He asked if I was single. What followed was the most heartfelt three-hour conversation, essentially an interview to see if I might be a good match for his son. It was sweet and very Rocky.
We talked about family, manners, creativity, innovation, values, and how a person moves through the world. When I told him I had found a boyfriend, he did not hesitate or withdraw. He simply wished me happiness and good luck.
The last thing he said to me, around Christmas, stays with me deeply.
“You’re always in my prayers.”
Then he offered a metaphor I will never forget.
“Think of life like a sailboat. With the wind at your back, you’re always moving forward.”
He asked me when I would make it to Tennessee so we could meet again. I said, “Soon.”
Rocky is always in my heart.
January 17, 2026
So many memories from long ago at Mamaw and Papaw’s house. I know you will be greatly missed. But I also envision there was a reunion with the ones who went before you when you arrived in heaven to spend eternity with Jesus. Praying for your family as they try to figure life without you. ❤️
January 17, 2026
My wife and I started attending West Park in the late '80s. The first sunday that we were there.I remember this man coming up to me putting his hand on my shoulder.And saying, hey, i'm Rocky, what's your name? We bonded immediately. When Craig Russell and I ran a Sunday school for several years. Rocky and Lori were there, lifting everybody up with genuine Christ-love, rocky, and I used to hangout frequently. I'm sharing a meal or just "palling" around. When my job took me to ohio, rocky was one of the folks that I kept in contact with,regularly talking and sharing what was going on in our lives. When Roxan was to be married, Rocky reached out to me to see if I would perform the service, which gave me an opportunity to hang out with him and Lori. And then a few layers later, when my son jason was in a Christian drama troop, when we came to Tennessee, to perform the show, Rocky and lori immediately reached out. And invited us to stay with them, which was such a blessing.
When I think about rocky, the word that comes to mind is genuine. He never put on an act or a show.He was who he was. He loved practically and sacrificially, and was always willing to do whatever it took to edify his brothers and sisters. I'm going to miss him until the day we're reunited in the presence of our Lord.
When I think about rocky, the word that comes to mind is genuine. He never put on an act or a show.He was who he was. He loved practically and sacrificially, and was always willing to do whatever it took to edify his brothers and sisters. I'm going to miss him until the day we're reunited in the presence of our Lord.
January 17, 2026
Back in 1988 or 89 Rocky was coaching softball at Rocky Hill and my daughter (Mary Beth Hazelwood’s cousin) was playing for him and he saw Alyson out pitching to the fence. She was only four or five years old and he came out there and asked if she could play ball on his team and I said she’s too little to play. Mary Beth was taller than Alyson by the way and he said don’t ever hold your child back because of her size she can do this so I let him talk me into it and I did it and Alyson excelled at it and I was never so happy and encouraged by Rocky by talking me into this. She’s a confident young woman now and like to credit Rocky with a lot of that.
January 17, 2026
When I was 16, I got my first car and for some reason always wanted to hang out with Rocky at the Exxon station. Anyone else would probably have ran me off but Rocky was always very kind to me and we struck up a lifelong friendship. Over the years I was fortunate to get to know the entire family and I want all of you to know I will be keeping you in my thoughts & prayers! Rocky- rest in peace my dear friend!
January 17, 2026
Rocky was a special man who always was kind and made everyone feel they mattered. He was one of the few men whom God used to show my sons the love of Jesus.
January 17, 2026
I've been trying for many days to put into words just how our friendship was. We knew that if either of us needed the other, they would be there. We were unlikely friends in the beginning but that friendship became rock solid and never wavered for 44 years. I love you man. You will be forever missed. May God Bless this precious family.
January 16, 2026
I’m going to miss you more than I can put into words.
You weren’t just a buddy — you were a true friend and part of my life for so many years.
Some of my best memories will always be the times we spent flying powered parachutes together… the views, the freedom, the laughs, and just being up there living life. Those moments meant a lot to me and I’ll carry them with me forever.
You’ll never be forgotten, and you’ll always have a place in my heart.
Rest easy, my friend… until we meet again.
You weren’t just a buddy — you were a true friend and part of my life for so many years.
Some of my best memories will always be the times we spent flying powered parachutes together… the views, the freedom, the laughs, and just being up there living life. Those moments meant a lot to me and I’ll carry them with me forever.
You’ll never be forgotten, and you’ll always have a place in my heart.
Rest easy, my friend… until we meet again.
January 16, 2026
Lori, Michael, Roxanne, and Joshua,
So many memories of the Crawfords at West Park. We all worked in the children's ministeries as our children were growing up together. Rocky was always the life of the party that all the children loved. In my mind's eye I see him soaring into heaven to God's great enjoyment.
May the peace that passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
In Christian love,
So many memories of the Crawfords at West Park. We all worked in the children's ministeries as our children were growing up together. Rocky was always the life of the party that all the children loved. In my mind's eye I see him soaring into heaven to God's great enjoyment.
May the peace that passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
In Christian love,
January 16, 2026
My brother and I met an wonderful human being one summer day many years ago, Mr.Rocky. I was selling my Ford Expedition and he bought it. We made conversation right away and lost track of time as if we were talking with a longtime friend. We knew from the start he was just an amazing person and kept in touch since then. He worked on my computers often and when I called he always made time for me on whatever I needed. It was easy to talk to him, I saw him as a dad and great friend that wouldn't judge just gave his advice. It was very comforting to hold a conversation with him. I will always keep him in my heart. May God keep his soul resting peacefully forever. 'Til we meet again. To Mrs. Crawford and family, I pray the Lord fills your heart with strength to endure this great loss. He will be greatly missed.
January 16, 2026
I met Rocky when I was a teenage waitress at Quincy's in Knoxville, around 1982. Rocky came in with the Knoxville Jaycees each Thursday night and quickly became my favorite customer. I knew Clay York, and loved hanging at Family Rec, and was excited to learn that Rocky was the manager. Years of fun memories. Through the years since then, Rocky has always been an important, loyal friend, and I loved meeting Lori, Michael (when he was tiny!) and seeing pics of Roxane and Joshua. Rocky loved his family fiercely, and shared precious stories of them with me. I admired his commitment to Promise Keepers (I think in the 90s?) and loved hearing of his spiritual journey. I will forever remember Rocky's laugh, his cowboy hat, his friendship and his smile.
January 15, 2026
My daddy (Dennis Rasar) thought alot of Rocky. May he rest in Peace in his eternal home. Until we meet again.
January 15, 2026
I'm so sorry to hear of Rocky's passing he was a really great man he made a DVD for the family of my sister passing he done a great job on it rocky we will meet again until then you will be missed dearly
January 15, 2026
I'm so sorry to hear of Rocky's passing! I truly enjoyed getting to know him over the years and all the stories he shared of his adventures. His family is in my prayers. God Bless!
January 14, 2026
I’m so sorry to hear this Mr rocky was a great great man I grew up 3 houses down and he was a great role model to us and most definitely made sure to let us know when we were doing wrong and guiding us in the right direction he tried to help all of us kids In brookmill he helped anyone that he could. We definitely knew if Mr rocky knew about it that he would have it set straight with the parents I was very hard headed and wouldn’t listen but he still tried to get threw to us he just had that way of letting you know when he came outside wanting to talk to you then you knew oh boy I’ve done messed up. He was a great man and will be missed
Rest in peace Mr rocky
Josh Phillips
Rest in peace Mr rocky
Josh Phillips
January 14, 2026
Okay so I'm going to attempt to put into words all that my heart and mind is reflecting this morning about one of my oldest and dearest friends passing from this life to the next Rocky Crawford.
The first time I met Rocky I was about 12 years old.
He had a 69 Z28 Camaro that to this day was one of the baddest, fastest and most beautiful muscle cars that I've ever seen in my life.
Before there was ever a road from Kingston Pike to middlebrook at Gallagher view Road that little section of road was just a cul-de-sac. With a little business strip mall and in the very back of it was a place called Family recreation center. Lots of pool tables video and pinball machines.
Rocky ran family recreation for many years.
His outgoing and friendly personality was perfect for such a place. Even though I never had any money Rocky always welcomed me and many other kids my age to come there and hang out.
He would let us brush the tables vacuum the floors and pay us by letting play pool and play the games If we didn't have anything to eat he would buy us something to eat.He basically let us hang out to keep us off the streets. Rocky never judged me He never tried to change me He always accepted me and quickly became a dear friend that I knew loved me and had my back no matter what. He became my brother from another mother.
Rocky was there for me when I got into trouble (which was a weekly event) He would say " Ok, What have you done now?" Then he would listen and tell me what I should do.
I remember the first time I met Lori. Rocky told me that his new girlfriend from Ohio was coming to the The Rec. ( That's what we called family Recreation Center)
He said "Chuck, treat her like a lady and make sure everyone else does as well" So by the time she got there every one knew how they were expected to act or they would answer to me. ( At that time in my life was not a good thing)
But, the moment she walked through the doors it was obvious this lady was different. Beautiful, elligant, kind and loving. She was a Christian lady and openly shared her faith with anyone that wanted to listen.
I remember when Rocky became a Born Again Christian. The first thing he did was tell everyone he saw and simply explained to all of us how He got saved and about Jesus. He wasn't pushy and never tried to beat any of us over the head with the Bible. From that day on he told me everyday that He loved me and was praying for me
Obviously there are a million stories that I could tell but none of them would really paint the picture of the man Rocky Crawford.
I'll finish by saying this on March 24th 1984 God took a wicked, sinful, troubled young man named Chuck Ruth with His arms wide open and covered me with His grace, washed me in His blood and saved my soul. Although Rocky and Lori were not there when I got saved they were definitely the first people in my life that I had seen changed by their faith and that were actually living for something greater than themselves and it made an impact on me.
The first person that I could not wait to tell was my dear friend and brother from another mother Rocky Crawford.
He came around the counter at the Rec and hugged me and we sat there and cried.
That's Rocky Crawford.Not a perfect man but one of a kind, an original.
I'll see you again one day my friend and until then you will be missed
The first time I met Rocky I was about 12 years old.
He had a 69 Z28 Camaro that to this day was one of the baddest, fastest and most beautiful muscle cars that I've ever seen in my life.
Before there was ever a road from Kingston Pike to middlebrook at Gallagher view Road that little section of road was just a cul-de-sac. With a little business strip mall and in the very back of it was a place called Family recreation center. Lots of pool tables video and pinball machines.
Rocky ran family recreation for many years.
His outgoing and friendly personality was perfect for such a place. Even though I never had any money Rocky always welcomed me and many other kids my age to come there and hang out.
He would let us brush the tables vacuum the floors and pay us by letting play pool and play the games If we didn't have anything to eat he would buy us something to eat.He basically let us hang out to keep us off the streets. Rocky never judged me He never tried to change me He always accepted me and quickly became a dear friend that I knew loved me and had my back no matter what. He became my brother from another mother.
Rocky was there for me when I got into trouble (which was a weekly event) He would say " Ok, What have you done now?" Then he would listen and tell me what I should do.
I remember the first time I met Lori. Rocky told me that his new girlfriend from Ohio was coming to the The Rec. ( That's what we called family Recreation Center)
He said "Chuck, treat her like a lady and make sure everyone else does as well" So by the time she got there every one knew how they were expected to act or they would answer to me. ( At that time in my life was not a good thing)
But, the moment she walked through the doors it was obvious this lady was different. Beautiful, elligant, kind and loving. She was a Christian lady and openly shared her faith with anyone that wanted to listen.
I remember when Rocky became a Born Again Christian. The first thing he did was tell everyone he saw and simply explained to all of us how He got saved and about Jesus. He wasn't pushy and never tried to beat any of us over the head with the Bible. From that day on he told me everyday that He loved me and was praying for me
Obviously there are a million stories that I could tell but none of them would really paint the picture of the man Rocky Crawford.
I'll finish by saying this on March 24th 1984 God took a wicked, sinful, troubled young man named Chuck Ruth with His arms wide open and covered me with His grace, washed me in His blood and saved my soul. Although Rocky and Lori were not there when I got saved they were definitely the first people in my life that I had seen changed by their faith and that were actually living for something greater than themselves and it made an impact on me.
The first person that I could not wait to tell was my dear friend and brother from another mother Rocky Crawford.
He came around the counter at the Rec and hugged me and we sat there and cried.
That's Rocky Crawford.Not a perfect man but one of a kind, an original.
I'll see you again one day my friend and until then you will be missed
January 13, 2026
I’m so sorry to hear about Rocky’s passing but we know where he is and we will see him again. Keeping your family in my prayers.
January 13, 2026
Rocky and Lori were the first to welcome me at West Park. They had a Christmas party at their house and invited my family. Rocky also loved my boys and daughter. He has a special place in each of their heart. Rocky definitely was a special man.
January 13, 2026
Mr. Rocky has always been a ray of sunshine. He constantly made you feel loved and welcome no matter what. He is and will always be an exceedingly exceptional person. Words can’t fully express or articulate just how much he will be missed. I’ve always loved him like an adopted Dad, and I have fond memories of getting to spend time with him and his family and of course going up in the ultralight. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, I love you all.
January 13, 2026
Its remarkable the impact a single person can have on a struggling young man. I have never known support, and guidance more clear and strong than Rocky's. Love, firm and unshaken in every word and action, I will do my very best every day to live as remarkably as he beleived we kids could be.
January 13, 2026
There are so many memories I have of Rocky. I can’t put into words just how much he will be missed. Rocky was always special to my Daddy. His Uncle Don thought he hung the moon. lol. When the time comes we will meet each other in heaven!
January 13, 2026
Rocky was always so good to my family. He always welcomed you with a bear hug. He was just a great, Christian man, and he will be missed.
January 13, 2026
Went to church and school with Rocky over 45 years ago. Always a good friend and a great person to be around. Talked with him about flying a lot. So sorry for your loss, I know he’ll be greatly missed. See you in heaven brother!
January 13, 2026
Rest in peace Rocky! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and being a friend.
Favorites
Fun fact about Rocky:
Rocky loved riding motorcycles, driving really fast, and never met a stranger.
Favorite Hobby
Flying his Powered Parachute Plane.
What was Rocky's favorite Food or Dish?
Always eating off the dollar menu to save a buck.
Service
Please join us to pay a last tribute.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Please come dressed however you would feel most comfortable. There is no need to be in formal attire. Rocky would always have preferred to be in jeans and tennis shoes.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Please come dressed however you would feel most comfortable. There is no need to be in formal attire. Rocky would always have preferred to be in jeans and tennis shoes.
made with 
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