Richard Neel "Jake" Crawford

Richard Neel Crawford, "Trader Jake", "The Professor", 78 of Gastonia went to be with our Lord Jesus on November 11, 2020.  He was born December 28, 1941 to the late Ralph Emerson and Ethel Biggers Crawford.  He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Linda Burrell Crawford, daughter Angela Crawford Cunningham and husband Brian, son Richard Brian Crawford and wife Miranda and grandchildren Grace, Trinity, Gabriel, Dalton, Jake, Connor, Raylynn and Jay, sister-in-law Edith Crawford, sister-in-law Brenda Wilson and husband Cliff, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.  Richard was the youngest of ten children and preceded in death by his siblings, brothers Elbert, Ray, Mack, and David and sisters, Ruby, Lila, Lois, Faye, and Peggy.

Richard graduated from Ashley High School in 1960.  He was also a graduate of Gaston Technical Institute (GTI), which was formerly a division of NC State University, making him a loyal Wolfpack fan.  Richard received a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from UNCC. He began his teaching career at GTI, later becoming an instructor at Gaston College.  He was a long-time member of Gastonia First Assembly where he especially enjoyed the Seniors Sunday School class. Along with Linda, Richard assisted with preparing the communion elements for a number of years.  Richard was an avid golfer, fan of bluegrass and gospel music, and life-long antique car enthusiast.  He was a member of the Kings Mountain Cruisers, often participating in local car shows where he drove his '59 Ford Edsel Corsair.  More than anything, Richard loved his family and adored each of his eight grandchildren.

Visitation will begin at 12:00PM on Saturday, November 14, 2020 followed by a funeral service officiated by Pastors Dennis Boyce and Lamar Creel at 1:00PM at Gastonia First Assembly of God, 777 Myrtle School Road, Gastonia.  Interment will follow at Westview Gardens in Bessemer City.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gastonia First Assembly, 777 Myrtle School Road, Gastonia, NC or Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC.