Joann (Morrison) Crawford

Joann Morrison Crawford, age 69, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2020, at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory.  

Joann was born on August 19, 1950 in Caldwell County to Lewis Thomas Morrison and Dorothy Hice Morrison.  She graduated from Hiddenite High School in 1968 and from Appalachian State University in 1972 with a degree in education.  She later returned to A.S.U. to complete a Master’s in Education. 

Joann was born to be an educator. She spent 31 years as a teacher in Alexander County, including 25 years at Ellendale Elementary School.  Many families in the Ellendale community were able to send three generations of their children through the doors of Mrs. Crawford’s classroom.  Throughout her career she also mentored and guided many young teachers to their own successful teaching careers.  During her retirement she continued to volunteer and work as a substitute teacher.  Her dear friends and colleagues have established a scholarship to continue her legacy by supporting aspiring teachers from Alexander Central High School. 

Joann was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church.  She attended St. Luke’s U.M.C. where she was an active member of the United Methodist Women’s group and worked with the church’s prison ministry as a Disciple Bible Study teacher.  In her free time she loved to enjoy nature while tending to her flower and vegetable gardens. She was an avid reader, a talented writer, and an artist. 

Joann is survived by her beloved husband of 45 years, James Crawford of the home, her son, Michael Crawford of Raleigh, and brother, Arthur Morrison of Lexington. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Grady Morrison. 

Joann’s ashes will be interred at St. Luke’s U.M.C. in a private ceremony.  A celebration of her life will be held later in the year when circumstances allow. 

Donations in her memory may be sent to the Joann Crawford Scholarship Fund, 148 Cedar Woods Rd., Taylorsville, NC 28681; or to the United Methodist Women’s Heritage Fund c/o St. Luke’s U.M.C., 52 16th Ave. NW, Hickory, NC 28601.

Condolences may be sent to: www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and cremation services is honored to be serving the Crawford Family.

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