William Franklin Crawford
William “Will” Franklin Crawford, age 57 of Lynchburg, VA, began walking on streets of gold Wednesday December 10, 2025.
Born November 26, 1968, to the late Linda Dolan Wilkins and the late William Crawford.
He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Crawford, his brother Graham Wilkins, his mother-in-law Donna Pallotti (Joseph), four stepchildren: Sarah Parker, Jesse Bryant (Lena), Lydia Popoca (Jacob), and Francisca Popoca. His two adopted daughters Jessica Amaya and Izabel Parker, two aunts: Ruth Dodson and Mary Jane Abbot who was his second mother, his brother-in-law Richard Grishaw (Youssy), and nephew Samuel Grishaw. He is also survived by numerous cousins and friends. He will be greatly missed by his beloved dogs Rocky and Andrew that never left his side.
In addition to his parents Will was preceded in death by his stepfather Norman Wilkins, father-in-law Richard Barry Grishaw and his beloved “Big Daddy and Big Momma,” John Dolan and Mary Dolan, who welcomed him into Heaven.
Will loved to watch sports, he loved the Dallas Cowboys and the LA Dodgers. He was also a fan of a good meal and made sure that everyone who was in his presence got a plate of food as well. Will loved Tree of Life Ministries and was saved under the preaching of Mike Dodson. He also loved America and especially his favorite president, President Donald Trump. Most important though Will loved the Word of God and made sure his daughters studied the Word of God! He was a loving and devoted husband to Shannon and will be greatly missed by her. He retired from the News and Daily Advance in Lynchburg.
A family night service will be held at Timberlake Whitten’s funeral home Monday December 15, 2025, 6pm-8pm. There will be a funeral service Tuesday December 16, 2025, at Whitten’s with graveside to follow at Virginia Memorial Park. Pastor Ray Kingrea and Pastor Mark Snowden will be officiating. All other times the family will receive guests at his residence. The family would like to thank Affinity Hospice, Whitten’s Funeral home, and Will’s caregivers Tina Goodman and Polly Creasey for their services.
