Mr. Jeffrey Brian Crawford ,Sr.

In Loving Memory Of; Jeffrey Brian Crawford (Big Jeff) was born on June 12, 1965 in Detroit, MI. He was the third child of Wheeler P. and Marva M. Crawford, both of whom preceded him in death. Jeff, always active in many sports, was educated in the Detroit Public Schools system and graduated from David L. Mackenzie High School where he played quarterback on the football team. Awarded an athletic scholarship to Winston Salem State University in North Carolina, Jeff embarked on a career which garnered him many accolades along with numerous lifelong friends. During summer vacations, Jeff returned to Detroit working for the U.S. Postal Service and Federal Mogul. Ultimately, finishing his education at Prairie View A&M University, one of our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), Jeff continued his education in business while playing football for the Panthers. His experiences there resulted in more lifelong friends. It was during his time at Prairie View A & M that Jeff met Benita Wilkerson whom he would later marry. To this union, four children were born. He was also “Dad” to his stepdaughter that he claimed as his own. Having had enough of Michigan winters, Jeff decided to become an entrepreneur in the security industry. He opened his own alarm installation company in Houston, TX which he managed until his death. Always a firm supporter of his alma maters, Jeff was sure to be an attendee of any of their functions. Whether a picnic, reunion or just a group of “his boys” getting together, you didn’t have to look for him. He was there! Talking junk was his favorite pastime, and if he couldn’t make you laugh, something was wrong with you! He also had a love of “old school” music that he continually blamed on his eldest sister and her “basement parties.” Songs by Earth, Wind and Fire and the Isley Brothers were known to get him “groovin” no matter where he was! While fun to be around, Jeff also had a serious side. Family came first with Jeff! His children always knew they could go to him with any problem. He wouldn’t solve the problem, but come up with options that you maybe hadn’t thought of. He was extremely close to his brothers and sisters and was always the first to pick up the phone just to say “Hey, what you doin”’?

Mr. Jeffrey Brian Crawford ,Sr.

June 12, 1965 - June 7, 2020