William "Bill" David Crawford

He was born in Abbeville, SC and was raised in Camden. Bill earned his bachelor’s degree from Wofford College and entered the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant in the Army Corps of Engineers. He served much of his military career in Yokosuka and Koshiba, Japan alongside his former wife and Navy nurse, Gail. After receiving an honorable discharge as a Captain and being awarded the Army Commendation Medal for exceptional meritorious service, Bill went on to complete master’s degrees at Texas A&M University and the University of New Orleans.

The arrival of his daughter, Merritt, brought Bill to Greenville, SC, where he drew on his experience in real estate development to establish several businesses. His career culminated in the success of his own firm, Crawford & Associates, where he was a respected commercial real estate broker. He loved his work, the challenge of each project, and the many connections he made over the years. Parkinson’s disease eventually led to his reluctant retirement.

Beyond his professional life, Bill was an animal lover who cared deeply for the many dogs who shared his home. He was also a passionate advocate for children who had experienced abuse or neglect, serving as a Guardian ad Litem and fostering a baby boy through to adoption.

After a life filled with adventure, service, and enduring friendships around the world, Bill passed away peacefully with family at his side in Greenville, SC. He will be lovingly remembered for his tenacity, humor, and generous heart.

He is survived by his daughter, Merritt Crawford Dempsey (Ben Michael Dempsey); his grandson, Calvin Crawford Dempsey; and his sister, Martha Crawford Muncrief.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Ashley Crawford, and his father, Jesse David Crawford.

A service celebrating his life will be held in early 2026; please contact the family for details.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill’s honor to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the Greenville County Foster Parent Association (GCFPA).