Leota Martin Dillard Cranford was a long time Memphian, beloved and respected by many. She was born January 4, 1931 in Thaxton, MS, the daughter of Volus and Helen Martin, where she enjoyed farm life with her four brothers Blois, Hollis, Jack, and Culley.
She graduated from Holmes Junior College, married Dean Dillard, and was the mother of Denise Dillard Crawford (John) and Janet Dillard. She enjoyed many years working in the personnel business and as a cherished staff member at Presbyterian Day School. She then married William Cranford and continued her career at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
She is survived by her daughters and grandsons Jordan Crawford (Emily) and Cameron Crawford , and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119, from 1 pm until 3 pm.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 12 pm at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119
