Mary Eileen Crawford 1935-2024

Eileen was born on March 4, 1935, in Salem, to the late Wayne and Mary Liebhart Jackson.

She was a proud graduate of Salem High School, class of 1953 and went on to build a fulfilling career with Ohio Bell (AT&T), where she dedicated 35 years of service. Eileen’s work ethic and commitment to excellence were hallmarks of her professional life, earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

On Aug. 19, 1987, Eileen married the love of her life, Arlan E. Crawford. Their union was one filled with shared joys and unwavering support until Arlan’s passing on June 3, 2021.

She leaves behind her daughters, Jill Weikart (husband, Tom) of Salem and Janelle Sylvester (husband, Rob) of Poland Township. Eileen’s family was the center of her universe and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Eileen’s legacy of love continues through her beloved sister, Wenda Ryman of Chester, W.Va., and her brother, Ronald Jackson (wife, Shirley) of Salem. Her life was further enriched by the joys of grandparenthood, as she doted on her three grandchildren, Aadam Zocolo, Aryn Glenn and Brad Galla, and reveled in the antics of her four great-grandchildren, Ava, Adyson, Alyza and Ryan Jr.

A woman of faith and music, Eileen was a long-standing member of Robbins United Methodist Church in Washingtonville, where she uplifted the congregation with her angelic voice as the choir director. She served in various other roles with grace and humility. Her passion for music extended to her involvement with the Salem Music Study Club, the Ohio Bell chorus, the Christian Women’s Society of Youngstown and the Oratorio Guild in Salem. Additionally, she enjoyed the camaraderie and activities of the Saxon Club in Youngstown, also a member and soprano singer for the Saxon Choir.

Eileen’s sisters, Nancy Wilson and Carol Farmer; her brother, Wayne Jackson; and her daughter, Jenifer Farmer, preceded her in death. They, along with her parents and husband, welcomed her with loving arms into eternal peace.

One of her favorite memories, which she frequently mentioned, was her many times spent with her late longtime friend, Tina, with their thermos of coffee and hours of reminiscing while on the beach.

Eileen’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled; yet her legacy of kindness and love will continue to live on through the countless lives she influenced. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose memory will be held close in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Eileen was a treasure to her family and her community, and though she has departed from this earthly realm, her spirit will forever be a guiding light to those she loved.

Friends and family will be received from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem, OH 44460.

A funeral service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, with the Rev. Matt Doerle officiating.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Mary Eileen’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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Mary Eileen Crawford
1935-2024