Donald William Crossley

Born in Zanesville, Ohio, Don moved with his family to Tampa, Florida, at the age of eight. In 1971, he married the love of his life, Deborah Sullivan, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. They made Brandon, Florida, their home for more than 52 years.

Don was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Crossley, and his brother, Harold Crossley.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Deborah Crossley; his son, Chad Crossley, and Chad's children, Carson Crossley and Sophia Crossley; his daughter, Dawn Schreiber, and Dawn's children, Harrison Schreiber, Hannah Schreiber, Jackson Schreiber, and Carter Schreiber; his sister, Nancy Taylor; his sister-in-law, Kathy Evans, and her husband, Butch Evans; and many beloved nieces and nephews, including Julie Taylor, Bryan Taylor, Theresa Crossley-Hill, Lori Erickson, Matt Parmer, James Parmer, Jonah Palinsky, Desmond Palinsky, Donnie Petersen, and Sarah Fowler.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard, a service that remained a source of great pride throughout his life. After his military service, he worked as a boilermaker before becoming a general contractor, earning the respect of those around him through his strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to quality craftsmanship. He was also a proud member of Brandon Masonic Lodge No. 114 in Brandon, Florida, where he valued the fellowship, service, and principles of Freemasonry. A lifelong Corvette enthusiast, Don was a founding member of the Bay Area Corvette Club in 1970, where he formed lasting friendships and shared his passion for classic American sports cars for many years.

A devoted Christian, Don's faith was the foundation of his life. He trusted in God's promises and lived with kindness, humility, and compassion. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Above all else, Don was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He believed in doing things the right way, led by example, and never missed an opportunity to support the people he loved. Whether cheering from the stands at his children's and grandchildren's baseball and softball games, enjoying evenings around a bonfire, listening to music, or sharing a cold beer with family and friends, Don found joy in life's simple pleasures and in the people who meant the most to him.

He will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering integrity, generous heart, steadfast encouragement, and enduring faith. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the friends whose lives he enriched, and the example he set for all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life honoring Don will be held at a later date. Family and friends will be notified once arrangements have been finalized.