The Honorable Barry Duncan Crane

Born on July 26, 1945, in Fort Worth, Texas, Barry Duncan Crane led a life marked by service, intellect, and devotion. He passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025. As the son of Colonel Russell Dale Crane and Doris Ogden Crane, Barry’s early years were shaped by the rhythms of military life, traveling the world as a “military brat” and experiencing post-war Germany and other distant places.

A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy in 1967, Barry’s journey was enriched by meeting the love of his life, Cheryl “Cheri” Crane, with whom he shared over 57 years of marriage.

Barry’s distinguished military career began with pilot training in Selma, Alabama, and upon completion was assigned to a C-141 squadron supporting troops in Vietnam. He then was chosen to train in the F-4 and completed two combat tours in Vietnam, serving in the 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron and the 523rd Tactical Fighter Squadron. Barry was honored to escort returning POWs from Vietnam. Barry’s military honors include the Distinguished Flying Cross, eleven Air Medals, and the Meritorious Service and Commendation Medals.

As a computer and technology enthusiast, he always encouraged those around him to use math and science to improve the world around them. His academic pursuits led him to the University of Arizona, where he earned a PhD in Physics in 1980. Barry served as an Associate Professor of Physics and flight instructor at the USAF Academy and later contributed his expertise in advanced technology and research at the Pentagon. He completed postgraduate study at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and taught engineering courses at George Washington University. Barry served as Deputy Director for Supply Reduction at the Office of the National Drug Control Policy and was a member of the Deputies Committee of the National Security Council.

After many years of service to his country, Barry and Cheri retired to Williamsburg, Virginia. He is preceded in death by his parents and survived by his brother, Jeffrey (Sheryl); his devoted wife Cheri; sons, Barrett (Robbin) and Bradford (Joanne); and twelve cherished grandchildren: Alexander, Ashleigh, Ethan, Benjamin, Daniel, Jacob, Joshua, Hannah, Caleb, Joseph, Elijah, and Samuel. Barry will be greatly missed.

Guided by faith, Barry answered the call: “Whom shall I send? Send me, Lord.” A viewing will be held by Nelsen Funeral Home on Monday, November 10, 2025 from 4-6 PM with a mass at St. Bede Catholic Church on Tuesday, November 11, at 11 AM in Williamsburg, VA. Burial will be held at the United States Air Force Academy Cemetery in Colorado on Monday, December 8th, 2025 at 9:00 AM. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Wounded Warriors, Paralyzed Veterans, or Williamsburg House of Mercy. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.