Paul Crawford

Mr. Paul Crawford, aged 67, of Paris, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Ascension St. Thomas Hospital West in Nashville.

Born on September 26, 1958, Paul lived a life filled with love, family, and simple joys. He was a devoted husband to MaryRose (Jeanette) Crawford, a proud father, a cherished PawPaw, and a beloved friend to all fortunate enough to know him. The son of the late Paul Douglas Crawford and Polly Mae Etheridge Crawford, Paul carried forward their values of strength, kindness, and family devotion throughout his life.

A loving family man, Paul is survived by his children: Trena (LaKeith) Washum of Madison, TN; Sedric (Shawanda) Crawford of Nashville, TN; Tashena Crawford (Julian Holiday); and Karen Crawford. He was a proud grandfather to Andrew Crawford, Jamescia Mason, Kaila (Kerry) McKibbens, LaKaiya Washum, Jurni Montaque, Kamil Washum, Tianna Howard, Javyn Holiday, Taniyah Howard, and TaKaiyah Howard. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Emery Esaw, Kamiyah McKibbens, and Kerry McKibbens III.

Paul is also survived by his siblings: Nell Crawford of Paris, TN; Paula (Thomas) Harris of McKenzie, TN; Sylvia Tharpe of Madison, TN; and Theresa (Larry) Williams of Paris, TN. He is further survived by brothers-in-law Dossie Ray Melton and Jerry Paul Melton of Henry, TN. He was preceded in death by his brothers Joe Wayman Crawford and Victor Crawford. Additionally, Paul leaves behind his uncle, Stanley Douglas of Frankfurt, Germany, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends who loved and respected him dearly.

Paul professed his faith in Christ at an early age and was a devoted member of Wiley United Methodist Church. He found joy in the simple and meaningful aspects of life, including fishing, where he found peaceful moments by quiet waters, playing cards amid laughter and friendly competition, and treasuring family time—whether at large gatherings or in quiet moments with his grandchildren. Above all, he valued heartfelt conversations that made others feel heard and welcomed. Known for his steady presence, easy humor, and generous heart, Paul had a special gift for making people feel at home wherever he went.

His life was defined not by material possessions but by the love he gave and the relationships he nurtured. Paul leaves behind a family strengthened by his guidance, friends enriched by his loyalty, and memories that will be cherished for generations to come. While he has departed from this earthly life, the impact of his kindness, wisdom, and love will continue to resonate through every life he touched.

Services to celebrate the life of Paul Crawford will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the church on the same day.

McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home - Paris 731-642-1515