James Ely Crawford

James Ely Crawford, 84, of Toronto, OH, formerly of Smithfield, OH, passed away suddenly Sat. July 22, 2017 in Trinity Medical Center ER in Steubenville, OH.

Jim was born in Brilliant, OH, son of the late James B. and Janie V. (Bell) Crawford.

He was retired from the Weir-Cove Moving and Storage Co. in Weirton, WV, where he spent many years a truck driver.

Jim attended the Rush Run CCU Church. He was also a member of the Teamsters Local #92 in Canton, OH, the Piney Fork American Legion and the Pine Valley Sportsman’s Club.

Jim served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by an infant brother, his brother-in-law, Jack Benedict and his nephew, Jackie Benedict.

Jim leaves behind his wife of 61 years, Joan R. (Hanks) Crawford, whom he married on March 16, 1956; his daughter, Cindy (Rich) Malone of Bloomingdale, OH; two sisters, Agnes (Earl) Mayle and Creda Benedict both of Brilliant, OH and his hunting buddy, John Merckle of Mingo Jct., OH.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday July 25, 2017 from 4 - 8 pm at the J.E Foster Funeral Home 107 Hill St. in Smithfield, OH. His funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11 am at the funeral home with Pastor Roger Wayne officiating. Burial will follow in Bloomingdale Cemetery.

Military Graveside Honors will be conducted by the Piney Fork American Legion at the cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to: Rush Run CCU Church c/o Marsha Brown 5319 Co. Rd. 17 Rayland, OH  43943.

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