Roy Nixon Crews

It is with profound sadness, but also, immense joy that Roy Nixon “Nick” Crews has gone to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Paradise on November 15, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, at the age of 96. Nick was born on June 22, 1929, in Daytona Beach, Florida, and went on to live a long, full, and remarkable life rooted in love, adventure, and dedication to family and country.

Nick was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his children Robin Van Duzen, Tracey Cupples, and Scott Crews; his grandchildren Aaron DeCicco, Connor Marshall, Kayla Van Duzen, and Cage Crews; and his great-granddaughter Katalyn DeCicco. He was preceded in death by his daughter Toni Godwin, mother Margaret Revo Charles, father Lesley Crews, brother Charlie Crews.

Nick attended Central High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, followed by Castle Heights Military Academy. A standout athlete, he was widely recognized for his skill on the football field, playing multiple positions—including tailback, kicker, defense and quarterback. Local newspapers often celebrated him as the “smallest tailback,” yet he consistently proved himself a powerful, fast, and effective player.

With a deep sense of duty, Nick served in the United States Marine Corps from September 28, 1951, to September 27, 1959. He received a certificate for Outstanding Marksman of his platoon and another acknowledging his distinction as the Outstanding Member of his platoon during boot camp. During active duty, he proudly served in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged as Corporal (E-4) Roy Nixon Crews, forever carrying with him the pride of being a United States Marine.

Following his military service, Nick made his home in Jacksonville, Florida, where he built a successful 35-year career as an art director for Independent Life Insurance Company. His creativity, discipline, and love of visual design shaped both his professional legacy and his personal life.

Outside of work, Nick embraced life with a spirit of adventure. His hobbies included skydiving, go-kart racing, mini Indy car racing, hot air ballooning, and the bathtub regatta—pursuits that showcased his fearless and playful nature.

Some of his happiest moments were spent on summer vacations with his children—Toni, Tracey, Robin, and Scott—in Knoxville and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Together, they hiked the Smoky Mountains, swam at the Sinks, explored Cades Cove, and wandered every nook and cranny of Gatlinburg. Those cherished days in the mountains remained among his most treasured memories.

During retirement, Nick continued to enjoy life deeply. He loved playing poker with close friends, spending time with his children, and proudly supporting his grandchildren and great-granddaughter at theater performances, football games, soccer matches, track meets, softball games, horse shows, skydiving and any event that brought his family joy. His devotion to his loved ones was unwavering; being present for them was the true highlight of his life.

Nick was immensely proud of his service to his country, and the values of the Marine Corps stayed with him throughout his years—honor, courage, and commitment.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him and will live forever in our hearts.

Services will be held at the Jacksonville National Cemetery on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 12:30. Attendees are asked to arrive no later than 12:15 and will line up in Lane 1. When you come in the main entrance, it will be clearly marked. Please remain in your cars because an attendant will come and take us to the pavilion where service will be held.

In lieu of flowers we are asking that if you so wish please donate to any of the veteran support nonprofits of your choosing.

Following the service we will have a celebration gathering at Cowtown Tavern, 1610 University Boulevard West, Jacksonville, FL 32217.