Cornelia Neff Washburn Crawford Frey

Cornelia Neff Washburn Crawford Frey, a remarkable woman of intellect, athleticism, and deep familial devotion, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Born in Hartford, CT, she was the youngest child of Cornelia Williams Belden Washburn and John Merrow Washburn, and the cherished sister of Martha, Jack, and Dick. Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and an insatiable zest for life.

Neal graduated from The George School in Newtown, PA, where she showcased her athletic prowess as a member of the field hockey and tennis teams, as well as President of the Girls’ Athletic Association. Her academic journey continued at the University of Vermont, where she excelled as a member of the ski team, and culminated with her graduation from Wheaton College in Norton, MA, as a double major in mathematics and physics.

Her professional career was equally distinguished, highlighted by her roles in banking. At Greater New Orleans Homestead, Neal held a variety of positions, including Chief Auditor, and served later as the accountant for St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, where she was an active member for over 67 years.

Neal’s passions extended well beyond her professional achievements. She was an avid competitive sailor, a skilled tennis player, and a master of bridge. Her love for all types of puzzles and games continued to the end of her life. Above all, Neal cherished her family. She was married to Edward Roberts Crawford (deceased), with whom she lovingly raised their children: Deborah Jeanne Crawford, Barbara Belden Crawford Sheffer (Geoff), and Mark Edward Crawford (Carol), along with their infant daughter, Margaret Ann, who preceded her in death. Neal and Ed moved to Metairie in 1957 and became members of St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church.

Neal delighted in the lives of her grandchildren: Ashley Patten (Mike), William Bower (Jackie), Matthew Bower (Lindsey), Sarah Bower (deceased), James Sheffer (Lauren), Eliana Crawford, Hannah Gutman, Edward Crawford, and Katherine Crawford. Her legacy extended to her great-grandchildren: Elizabeth Patten, Maxwell Patten, Sawyer Patten, Blake Sheffer, Kensington Sheffer, and Holland Sheffer and step-great-grandchildren, Cody Patten (Samantha), Carson Patten, Connor Patten, Guerin McCann, and Cullen McCann. Mom lived for beach vacations with her grandchildren.

Later in life, Neal found love and companionship once again with Walter Graff Frey. Together, they shared many joyful pursuits, including fishing, boating and competitive bridge. She warmly embraced Walter’s family, enjoying family gatherings with his six children: Simone Kiel (David), Walter Frey Jr. (Stephanie), Michele Frey (Dian), Frank Frey (Louisan), Nicole Frey (Colleen), and Mignon Sweeney (Craig), as well as their families.

Neal loved education, hard work, perseverance, friends and family. She appreciated the loving care and friendships at Sunrise of Metairie in her last years as she continued to touch many lives with her warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication to those she held dear. Her memory will be cherished by all who were fortunate to know her, and her spirit will live on through the family and friends who celebrate her remarkable life.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 3412 Haring Rd. in Metairie, with visitation at 10 am followed by a funeral Mass at 11 am and a reception in the church hall. Burial will be at Metairie Cemetery immediately following.

Donations to St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church (3412 Haring Rd., Metairie, LA 70006) in lieu of flowers, would be appreciated.

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com