Marvin Gene Crawford

Mr. Marvin Gene Crawford, 66, of Blytheville, passed from this life on Monday, April 15, 2019, at his home. Marvin was one of 11 children born to John and Sadie Cato Crawford in Rives, Mo. He was a graduate of Arkansas State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Technology. He served his country with honor in both the United States Marine Corp and the United States Army. His dedication to service didn’t stop there as he continued serving the City of Blytheville on the Blytheville Police Department. There he held the rank of Criminal Investigative Division Commander, SWAT Team Commander, FBI Academy graduate and retired as Assistant Chief of Police. After his retirement from the Police Department he then served three years as the Blytheville Public Works Director. His 28 years of dedicated service and deep commitment showed his resiliency by having the ability to adapt and meet the challenges of adversity, trauma and tragedy that would present themselves in his career. He took the slogan of the Blytheville Police Department “To Protect and Serve” to heart, as he led those who served under him truly by example. However, the most important aspect of Marvin’s life was one of ensuring that his family was protected and loved. He tried to ensure that he would spend as much quality time with his family as possible. Marvin was also an avid golfer who loved the challenges brought on by fairway roughs, strategically placed sand traps or water hazards at the Thunder Bayou Golf Course.

In addition to his parents, Marvin was preceded in death by his brothers, Bill Crawford, Junior Crawford, Raymond Crawford and Joe Crawford; and his sisters, Violet Moore, Helen Crawford and Dorlene Crawford.

Marvin is survived by his wife of 43 years, Annette Dimock Crawford of the home; children, Joey and Misty Manrique of Blytheville, Kim Manrique of Desert Hot Springs, Calif., Erik and Maui Crawford of Benton, Amanda White of Blytheville; sisters Imogene and Tony Kackley, Nancy and J.B. Scott, Olene Crawford; grandchildren, Brittany Turner, Chase and Austyn Turner, Keegan Manrique, Erik and Melissa Crawford Jr., Greyson Fullbright, Kara Crawford, Kaden Fullbright, Bailie Crawford, Jayce Fullbright, Zac White; great-grandchildren, Bentlee Crawford and Cayden Crawford; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Marvin will be held Monday, April 22, at 12 p.m. in the Cobb Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends Monday morning from 10 a.m. until service time also at Cobb Funeral Home.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.