Helen Crawford, formerly of Crab Orchard

Our dear beloved mother, Helen N. Crawford, went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 10, 2021 at 11:08 a.m.

Helen Crawford was known for her selfless service to others, her tireless work to make sure her family and friends were loved and well cared for, and for her wonderful joy of life. She graduated from St. Joseph's School of Nursing in Alton, IL and worked as a nurse for Owens Illinois Glass Company. She cared deeply about Christian education and devoted many hours to the school at her church - bringing lunches to the children and fundraising to support the school and its expansion.

Helen loved playing golf, belonging to two leagues, even getting a hole in one. She was also an ardent bowler in the WIBC (Women's International Bowling Congress) and belonged to the National 600 Bowling Club. Both sports she played well into her 80s.

She was born on July 18, 1931, in Crab Orchard, IL, the daughter of Samuel Arthur and Gertie (Beasley) Clarida. Helen married Donald Edwin Crawford on February 14, 1953, and their marriage was a true love story.

Helen is survived by her children, Tricia Thomas (Brian) of Glen Carbon, Tonya Crawford of Mission, Kanas, and a grandson, Brooks Thomas.

In addition to her husband, Donald, she is preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Esther Marshall; two brothers, Lewie Clarida and John Clarida; and niece, LaDonna Kay Stone.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Alton, IL.

Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2021, at Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto.

Burial will take place in Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Bethalto.

Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran School.

Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com