Phyllis Crawford

Phyllis Crawford left this earth on May 19, 2026, at the age of 91.

Phyllis was a creative and loving soul who lived life on her own terms. She was a beautiful woman, both inside and out, with a warmth and spirit that drew people to her. Her motto, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade," guided her throughout her life.

Born in Queens, New York, to Kathryn and Phillip, Phyllis was one of six children. She moved to California in 1957 but never lost her New York sensibility. Soon, the rest of her family followed west, and together they built a close-knit extended family.

Deeply devoted to her faith, Phyllis had considered joining a convent before meeting the love of her life, Tom Crawford. They married and raised three children: Eileen, Michael, and Robert ("Bob"). While attending a parade, Phyllis discovered a modest home in Cupertino. Though it was in disrepair, she saw its potential and immediately knew it was where her family belonged.

Tragically, Tom died suddenly in 1968 at the age of 40, leaving Phyllis a widow at just 34 years old with three children under the age of seven. She never remarried.

After 58 years apart, they are together once again.

Phyllis loved children and often said, "They make you whole." A gifted educator, she worked with children with learning disabilities and co-authored a curriculum with a child psychologist. She took great pride in helping students find confidence and success.

She never shied away from a challenge. As a single mother in the 1970s, she worked three jobs to provide for her family. With determination and the support of her extended family, she created a home where her children always felt loved and secure.

Phyllis found peace by the ocean. She lived in Capitola for many years and was active in her community. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was "Nanny" to her six grandchildren—Sara (Ryan), Shelby, Zachary, Hannah, Isla, and Alex—and was blessed to welcome three great-grandchildren, Olivia, Benjamin, and Hunter, into her life. She was also a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved husband Tom, her brother Clifford, her sister Audrey, and her grandson Alex. She is survived by her children, Eileen (Dean), Michael (Aida), and Bob (Marie); her sisters, Joyce, Arlene, and Carol; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many extended family members who loved her dearly.

Kind, resilient, and independent, Phyllis approached life with optimism and grace. She loved music, art, and learning about different cultures, and had a special gift for connecting with those who felt different or overlooked. Her warmth, curiosity, and generosity touched countless lives.

Phyllis leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, faith, and compassion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.