James (Jim) William Crawford, 81

James (Jim) William Crawford, 81, of China Grove died June 23, 2024.

Jim was a Rutherford County native and a son of the late Rev. R.L. Crawford and Maude Crawford of Rutherfordton. He was a graduate of Chase High School, a member of the National Guard and worked for Doncaster in Rutherfordton. He spent most of his career in the furniture business with Sterchi's Furniture and later Heilig-Meyers. He would later establish Key Real Estate.

In addition to his wife Bunny, Jim is survived by his daughter Amber C. Grumbles and son-in-law Scott Grumbles of Salisbury and two granddaughters, Tanner Grumbles and Kendall Grumbles of Charleston; two other children preceded Jim in death, an infant daughter and a son, William Brent Crawford.

Also surviving Jim are a sister Jolene Crawford Guffey, (Hal) of Rutherfordton and a host of nieces and nephews.

Also preceding Jim in death were two young sisters, Helen Crawford and Inez Crawford; sisters, Irene C. Gordon (the late Edgar) of Forest City, Mildred C. Bowlin (the late Raymond) of Sparks, NV and three brothers, Ray Crawford (Starlyn) Don Crawford (the late Judy) and Dr. Larry Crawford (Glenda).

Jim was a member of First Baptist Church in Enochville. He was also a member of the China Grove Key Club.

The couple's disabled son Brent brought his parents great joy and delight as they spent their lives with Brent loving him, and by example, teaching those around them to accept life's joys and challenges by trusting God.

Jim received great satisfaction as a Meals on Wheels volunteer, delivering meals along with granddaughter Tanner, and becoming acquainted with those on the meals route.

Funeral services will be Friday, June 28 at 2pm at Whitney's Funeral Home in Kannapolis. The family will greet friends at 1pm.

The family request memorials be made to Tucker Hospice House of Kannapolis where Jim and Brent (October, 2012) spent the last days of their lives.