Gary L. Crum

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gary Leon Crum, 78, who died Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Moses Cone Hospital. Born March 7, 1947, in Guilford County, North Carolina, Gary was the son of the late Mark Hilary and Lillie Mae Crum.

Gary grew up surrounded by love and strong values that guided him throughout his journey. He made a friend everywhere he went and loved to make people laugh. His infectious spirit and unwavering compassion brought joy to everyone around him.

Preceded in death by his brothers Charles David “Charlie” and William “Bill”, and his children Christopher and Kristal Crum. He is survived by his wife, Paula; his children, Jennifer (Paul) and Lee (Ruth); his grandchildren, Ricky, Rachel, and Paul David, and his brother, Gerald (Sylvia). His family was his greatest pride, and his love for them knew no bounds.

Gary generously gave his time and talents to causes and organizations that mattered most. He served as the scoutmaster for several years for Troop 103, where he had the unique ability to mentor all the young men in the troop. He was known for his “unique songs,” often ad-libbing lyrics to tunes like “Oh Lord, It’s Hard to Be Humble” and, among the Boy Scouts, “I Can’t Get ‘Em Up” to the tune of Reveille. When dealing with difficult questions, he often quoted “the book of moms” with invented answers.

A 20-year retired military veteran, Gary completed three tours in Vietnam. He worked as an Avionics Manager at Piedmont Aviation and could often be found at Air Harbor Airport, hanging out with friends, working on planes, and shooting the breeze. He also spent time working with Mike Rankin at Allied Motors in Winston-Salem.

Gary Leon Crum’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and service. Those who knew him will remember his infectious smile, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held at Hanes Lineberry North Elm Chapel, 515 North Elm Street, Greensboro, North Carolina, on November 28, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm in the Lineberry Center at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Guilford Memorial Park, 6000 W. Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas, 66675, or online at woundedwarriorproject.org.