James Lawrence Crawford

James Lawrence Crawford, 92, of Besemer City, North Carolina, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on March 9, 2026. Born on September 19, 1933, in Kings Mountain to the late Isaac Robert Crawford and Mildred Brevard Crawford, James lived a life defined by quiet dignity, unwavering kindness, and deep devotion to those he loved.

James attended Lincoln Academy High School, where he graduated in 1952. After graduating, James answered the call of duty and served honorably in the United States Army, earning the distinction of Marksman. His military service reflected the same discipline and steadfast character that would define every chapter of his life. Following his military service, James spent 30+ years working in the furniture industry for Maxwell Brothers, which later became Heilig-Meyers from which he would retire. James possessed a strong work ethic, that characteristic never changed even after retirement so, he continued working part time for the Gastonia ABC Board for several years.

James was a man of gentle spirit and remarkable character. Those who knew him well would speak of his kindness and gentle spirit. He was a man of deep faith, boundless love for his family, and a practical wisdom that expressed itself in his well-known frugality; qualities that spoke to his deep respect for the many blessings he was given. He was generous in ways that went beyond material things, offering his time, his presence, and his care to all who were fortunate enough to know him. Above all, he cherished his family. James shared 34 years of marriage with his beloved wife, the late Ethel Muskelly Crawford. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.

A faithful member of Adams Chapel AME Zion Church, James found in his church community both a spiritual home and a place of fellowship. His quiet, steady presence was a source of comfort to all who worshipped alongside him.

In addition to his parents and his wife, James was preceded in death by his twelve siblings and stepson Vernon Muskelly.

He leaves behind a family who will carry his legacy forward with pride. James is survived by his daughter, Darlene Stevenson, of Gastonia, NC; son, James Crawford (Mary) of Kings Mountain, NC. Grandchildren, Sherry Muskelly of Gastonia, NC, James Muskelly of New Hampshire, Brandon Falls (Tasha) of Florida, Sherry Crawford of Dallas, NC, Brittany Crawford of Gastonia, NC, Courtney Falls of Virginia, Monica McConnell (Adrian) of Kings Mountain, NC, and Natasha Crawford of Kings Mountain,NC. A very special niece, Shirley Barnes of Bessemer City, NC along with great grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends whose lives were made richer by his presence.

A funeral service celebrating the life of James Lawrence Crawford will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Adams Chapel AME Zion Church located at 212 Lake Montonia Rd, Kings Mountain, NC 28086. The family will receive friends from 3:30 - 4:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Adams Chapel AME Zion Cemetery.

A public viewing will be held at Greene Funeral Service (South Chapel - 1503 S York Road, Gastonia, NC 28052 on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. In the days leading to the service, the family will receive visitors at 123 Jack Adams Road, Kings Mountain, NC, 28086 until 8:00 p.m. daily.

Online condolences may be made at www.greenefuneral.com

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia, NC.