Howard W. Crosby

CROSBY Mr. Howard W. Crosby, 85, was born in Huntington, WV to Ira and Hazel Crosby on January 2, 1926. He was raised in Russell, KY with his brothers John, Ronald, Louis, Robert (all deceased), Ralph, and Edward. He served 2 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, during World War II and was honorably discharged. He returned home and worked on the C & O railroad. He married his high school sweetheart Grace E. Bawsel in Russell, KY on March 16, 1950. Two years later they had their first son, Gregory Crosby. In 1959, Howard and Grace moved to Jacksonville, Fl. where they resided for the next 51 years. In 1963, they had their second son James Crosby. Until Grace's passing in 2010 they were long time members of Cedar Hills Baptist Church. Howard served on several church committees. He was a retired Journeyman Electrician from United Electric. Before his long term illness, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed being outside, going on trips with his wife, and camping with his family. His fondest treasures were his wife, children, grand-children, great grandchildren, sister-in-law and aunt. Howard passed peacefully November 12, 2011 at 7:30am at home. He was dearly loved and treasured by his family and friends. Howard is survived by his two sons; Gregory Crosby (Candace) of Jacksonville, FL and James Crosby (Diana) of Sanderson, FL; 5 grandchildren, Jennifer (Carlos) Carbajal, Crystal (Charles) Johnston, Bradley (Jessica), Joshua and Aaron Crosby; 5-great-grandchildren, AnneMarie, Victoria, Elizabeth, Joseph, and Scotty; brothers Ralph Crosby of Jacksonville, FL and Edward Crosby New Port New, VA. Viewing will be held from 6-8pm on Thursday, November 17, 2011 at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 5753 Blanding Blvd. Services will be held on Friday, November 18, 2011 at 11am at Cedar Hills Baptist Church, 4200 Jammes Rd. Interment to follow at Jax Memory Gardens, 111 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, FL. Arrangements entrusted to Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 5753 Blanding Blvd., (904) 777-5727. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com