Jack Alden Crabill

We celebrate the remarkable life of Jack A. Crabill, Ph.D., who peacefully departed this world in his sleep on March 21, 2026, at the age of 94. Jack was born on October 17, 1931, to his parents, Perry F. Crabill, Sr., and Ethel Barr Crabill.

Jack enjoyed talking of his time working (1954 to 1957) as an ice cream manufacturer at the Turner Laboratory at the University of Maryland. He was also employed as a laboratory technician at Prince George’s General Hospital in Cheverly, MD, from 1957 to 1971.

Jack’s early years instilled in him a love for learning that he carried into his distinguished academic career. He was a proud alumnus of the University of Maryland College Park, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Science Education in 1961. His quest for knowledge didn’t stop there; he later obtained a Master’s Degree in Science Education in 1971 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Management in 1980, all from the University of Maryland. Jack’s commitment to education was not only a personal achievement but a gift that he shared with countless students and colleagues throughout his career.

Jack dedicated his entire professional life to the Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland. From 1961 to 1994, he inspired young minds as a science teacher, department head, Science Coordinator, K-12 Science Specialist, and ultimately as the Science Supervisor, K-12. His influence extended beyond the classroom as he took great pride in his role as the Past Co-Director of the Prince George’s Area Science Fair (PGASF), encouraging future generations to pursue their own scientific explorations. His expertise was further recognized when he served as a consultant and evaluator for the NASA Sharp Program from 2001 to 2005.

Jack was also involved in the creation of the Eleanor Roosevelt High School Science and Technology Center in Greenbelt, MD. The school is a Maryland public magnet high school specializing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The school opened in 1976.

Jack was very proud to have been a national and international relief worker in the 1950s for Church World Service, Brethren Service, on the Heifer Project, serving in Texas, Ohio, Maryland, Germany, and Austria.

Jack’s love for discovery was not confined to the realm of education. He was a licensed pilot and aircraft owner, a passion that saw him restore a classic Ercoupe aircraft at his home. This remarkable feat earned him an Outstanding Individual Achievement Award from Paul Poberezny, President of the Experimental Aircraft Association, a testament to his dedication and skill.

Jack was the first volunteer at the College Park Air Museum Restoration Shop in 1998. He continued as a volunteer until 2010, eventually becoming the head volunteer until the shop was closed by the museum.

In addition to his aeronautical pursuits, Jack found joy in playing guitar and indulging in model railroading. His memberships in the American Bonanza Society, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Ercoupe Owners Club, the Educator’s Club, and the Train Collectors Association reflected his diverse interests and the communities he cherished. He was previously on the Board of Directors of the Fields of First Foundation, College Park, MD.

Jack is survived by his children, Bruce Crabill, Gretchen Crabill Bradburn (Ralph), Wendy McClendon, Heidi McGuckin (Kelly), and stepdaughter Pamela Libby. His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Jack is reunited in peace with his parents, his wife of 51 years, Joan (Joni) Arlene Nelson Libby Crabill, and siblings, Anne Crabill Glick, Roger D. Crabill, Ward B. Crabill, Perry F. Crabill, Jr., and Norman L. Crabill, who predeceased him.

At Jack’s request, there will be no services.