Leonard Brock "LB" McCrea

Leonard Brock (LB) McCrea passed from this life into eternity, at the age of 88, on Thursday, April 28, at home and surrounded by loving family. We know that he has fought the good fight, has finished the race, and has kept the faith. (2 Tim 4:7) Visitation will be Sunday, May 1, at Johnson's Funeral Home, with the family present from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. A celebration of his life will be held at Johnson's Funeral Home Chapel on Monday, May 2, at 2:00 pm, with pastors Randy Levens and Billy Simmons officiating. Burial will follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. His six sons will serve as pallbearers, with daughter Teresa an honorary pallbearer. LB was born in Haskell County on October 9, 1927 to Ruby and Grady W. McCrea. He graduated from Paint Rock High School. On September 28, 1946 he married Hattie Lavern Walden in San Angelo. From that union of 57 years until her death in 2004, came a lasting legacy of family love with 7 children, 21 grandchildren, and 37 great-grandchildren. His greatest joy was his family and knowing that they all knew Jesus. He considered himself the richest man in San Angelo because of this, and loved to tell the story to all who came to visit. As a young man, LB traveled with a friend to California by bus. It was there that he learned the masonry trade, one that would be his livelihood for life. His early work as a brick mason for contractors such as Ally T. Hughes, and later with his own company, McCrea Masonry, leaves many lasting landmarks in San Angelo and surrounding counties. A master brick and stone mason, he and his crews worked on some of the largest churches, schools, and commercial buildings in San Angelo. His work ethic and attention to detail has been taught and passed down to sons, grandsons, and great-grandsons, many of whom continue in the construction business. He said to do it right the first time - not so that you wouldn't have to re-do it - but so that you would have the opportunity to work for that customer again. LB loved to work and continued to do so into his 80's alongside his sons and grandsons. Hunting, fishing, and camping with his family were also precious memories. More recently, he looked forward to coffee with Teresa and the boys on weekday mornings. Many life stories and laughs were shared around his kitchen table. LB is survived by his children and spouses: Randy & Roberta of Sterling City; Danny & Shire, Tony & Gayle, Micky & Sherry, Kenny & Gina, Mark & Vernona, all of San Angelo; and Teresa McCrea Atchison of Round Rock, TX., also a daughter-in-law, Meloni McCrea. Grandchildren are: Ross McCrea (Jessica) of Sterling City; Kelly Smith (Jeff) of Abilene; Eric McCrea (Tori) of Crossville, TN; Melissa Falkner (Shane); Clayton McCrea (Kelly) of Mason; Justin Bitner (Christina); Angie McCrea of Temple; Michael Walters of Houston; Tanner McCrea (Carolyn); Tucker McCrea; Meggan McCrea of Demming, NM; Trista Lyons (Kenny); Reece McCrea (Rachel) of Dallas; London Crews (James); Trace McCrea; Tamara Johnson (Danny) of Round Rock; Brandon Atchison of Round Rock; Kenna Bahlman (Cody) of Aberdeen, NC; Logan Haviland (Sierra) of Christoval; Lexis McCrea; Aubrey McCrea; 37 great-grandchildren; and several special nephews and their families. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to Cornerstone Christian School, Meals for the Elderly, or Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com