Lela "Joyce" Crawford

Lela "Joyce" Crawford, 80, of Springfield, died at 11:20 p.m. on Thursday, February 9, 2017 at St. John's Hospice. Joyce was born March 14, 1936 in the New Berlin/Loami area, the daughter of Russell C. and Grace E. Johnson Hovey. She married James B. Crawford on February 23, 1957 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Springfield; he preceded her in death on May 17, 2014. Joyce graduated from Franklin High School in 1955 and was a homemaker for most of her life. She enjoyed doing lawn work, playing Bingo and Pinochle, but most of all spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous pet dogs throughout the years. She was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Roger Hovey; and sister, Rita Smith. She is survived by her three sons, Jim (wife, Christy) Crawford of Williamsville, Joe Crawford (partner, Tony Feldman) of Chicago, and Mickey (wife, Lori) Crawford of Springfield; two daughters, Cathy Crawford-Fitzpatrick of St. Charles, MO and Carol (husband, Kevin) Hagan of LaGrange Park; eleven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her three sisters, Virginia Edwards of Springfield, Martha Pippen of Greenview, and Kay (husband, Larry) Price of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Private family ceremonies will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to: Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702 or Paralyzed Veterans of America, Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 758532, Topeka, KS 66675-8532.