William "Bill" Taylor Crawford

William "Bill" Taylor Crawford, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on October 8, 1935, in Kentucky, Bill lived a life marked by dedication- to his country, his family, his faith, and his community. Upon graduation from high school, he proudly served four years in the United States Air Force, stationed in Korea. Following his military service, he pursued higher education and matriculated from Indiana University with a B.S. in Business. Bill built a long and successful career with General Electric, where he worked in all aspects of Finance for 37 years. His work ethic and commitment were evident in every role he undertook throughout his professional life.

A man of deep faith and service, Bill was a devoted member of Brookside Christian Church. His passion for helping others led him to serve on the board of the Woodburn Christian Children's Home from 2002 - 2019. Bill was a devout 32-year member at Georgetown Church of Christ, where he served as the Chairman of the Building Committee. He also volunteered many years for Junior Achievement which was a real joy for him; a lasting testament to his compassion and desire to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Bill had an enduring love for fishing and sports that spanned decades. He was an avid softball player who pitched for the Hogs in Fort Wayne for many years. He also coached basketball, and participated in numerous golf, bowling, and basketball leagues throughout his life. A true sports enthusiast, Bill was known as the biggest Hoosier fan around and followed Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever with great enthusiasm.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Patricia Crawford;

daughter, Susie (Jim Hole) Payne; son, Jeff (Kristen) Crawford; grandchildren, McKenna (Zach) Havens, Samuel Payne, Nicky Stanley, Delaney Crawford, and Logan Crawford; bonus grandchildren, Sierra and Lauren Hole; great-grandchildren, Savannah, Luke, and Holton. He is also remembered by many brothers and sisters whose lives he touched deeply. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Bessie Crawford; and siblings, Ray Crawford, Junior Crawford and Geraldine Porenski.

His legacy of love, faith, service, and spirited competition will live on through all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.

Funeral Service is at noon, Friday, October 3, 2025, at Brookside Church, 6102 Evard Rd, Fort Wayne with calling at 10:30 AM until service time, Pastor Joe Heins officiating. Private entombment at Concordia Cemetery Gardens, Fort Wayne.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to Woodburn Christian Children’s Home or Brookside Church in Bill's honor.

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