Mary Esther Crafton

Mary Crafton, 93, died at her home in Phoenix, AZ on Friday, September 18, 2026. She was born on July 10, 1933 in Brookville, Indiana, the youngest daughter of Ralph J. Beckman and Mary Esther (Bossert) Beckman. She married Herbert Clinton Crafton on September 1, 1962 and he preceded her in death on June 29, 2002.

Mary earned her nursing diploma at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati in 1954 and was a proud member of the nursing profession. Her career included Director of Nursing of Coronado Care Center, and staff nurse and team leader at numerous hospital settings including St. Joseph Care Center, Boswell Memorial Hospital, and multiple VA hospitals.

Mary is survived by her three children, Thomas, of Phoenix, AZ; Rich, of El Mirage, AZ; and Terry, of Phoenix, AZ as well as eight grandchildren: Matt (Krista) Crafton, Amanda (Corey) Keller, Danielle Crafton, Madison Crafton, Taira Harlos, Tia Harlos, Torii (Justin) Harlos, Taylr (Levi) Zanca, and Tylre Harlos, and eight great-grandchildren: Grace Ciminnisi, Remedie Harlos, Masyn Harlos, Adison Harlos, Delilah Hernandez, Paisley Keller, Harper Keller, and Easton Fox.

Besides her parents and husband, Herb, she was preceded in death by her two sisters; Marjorie Willer (age 92) of Batesville, IN on October 22, 2022 and Maribel Wilson (age 95) of Brookville, IN on September 23, 2020.

In her leisure time she enjoyed reading, doing puzzles, baking, and watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren enjoy her pool. She also enjoyed crocheting which included making baby blankets for grandkids and great grandkids, which was always a treasured gift. She was a classic matriarch and enjoyed hosting and feeding her family for the holidays, or any time they stopped over for a visit. She was a well loved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who will truly be missed.