Larry Gene Crofford Obituary

Larry Gene Crofford, age 78 of Wylie TX, passed away March 25, 2020. He was born November 6, 1941, in Oklahoma City, OK, to Jim W. Crofford and Bertie (Ball) Crofford. Larry is survived by his wife, Lana Crofford; daughter: Stephanie Powell; grandchildren: Shelby Bennett, Chris Powell, Ashley Powell and Preston Powell; brother: Jim Crofford; sisters: JoAnn Ferguson and Mary Lee Cobb; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved daughter, Amy Bennett.

Larry was a very gentle and kind man. He was extremely giving and loved to generously help others. He was quick to smile and loved to laugh. He met his wife Lana in high school and they were inseparable for the next 58 years. December would have been their 59th anniversary. Larry treasured his family and he showed it daily through his words and actions. He was a a sweet, Christian man who trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior and loved Him as Lord. He spent much time in prayer and enjoyed listening to old gospel songs.

Larry was a hard worker from a young age, often working multiple jobs to provide for his family. In 1975 he started a produce company called The Choppin’ Block. It became a big and wonderful business that provided processed produce to most all of the fast food restaurants in DFW. He never wanted to retire, so even after selling The Choppin’ Block he continued to work until June of 2019.

Larry was extraordinarily meticulous in every single aspect of his life, but people who knew him closely most often commented on his fashion sense or his landscaping skills. Whether he lived on 10 acres or in a neighborhood, he would have flowers galore and not a blade of grass needed nipped. He had a deep appreciation for anything beautiful – a flower, an article of clothing, a piece of art and especially his beautiful wife, Lana. We can only imagine what he is seeing in Heaven now.

Larry always had an encouraging word to share; frequently telling a waiter or waitress what a great job they had done, a friend how much they mattered to him or one of his grandkids how extremely proud of them he was.

He would literally do anything for his family. Stephanie said she was always hesitant to mention a desire for something in front of him because she knew he would get it for her and she would feel guilty. Amy, on the other hand, thought his desire to give was awesome and always wondered why he never got her the roller coaster she wanted in the backyard as a kid! It was the only time he said no.

When Amy passed away in October, Larry was never able to recover from the pain of that loss. Losing him is difficult for our family, but we are grateful that he and Amy are together again. The family is very appreciative of your prayers.

Private services will be held.