Stanley Craig Crawford, age 81, a resident of Marshall, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Brookdale Senior Living in Shreveport, Louisiana, with immediate family by his bedside.

Born on February 16, 1945, in Lubbock, Texas, Stan was raised in the Texas Panhandle and carried its independent spirit with him throughout his life. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Navy as a radio operator aboard the USS Pyro. During his service he received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Vietnam) and a Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon.

After his military service, he earned a Bachelor of Business degree from San Angelo State College. He then pursued a career in healthcare, completing a diploma program in nursing and a certificate program in anesthesia to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Stan's distinguished career as a CRNA spanned more than 40 years and nearly as many states, though he primarily practiced in Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas. He earned a reputation for clinical excellence and steady leadership in the operating room. He also served as a dedicated mentor and clinical instructor for the next generation of CRNAs at LSU Health Science Center in Shreveport, Louisiana—including his own son, Robert.

A natural storyteller with a warm heart and welcoming spirit, Stan never met a stranger. He had a gift for making people feel seen and valued, and he made it a point to tell those around him that he loved them. Whether family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers, he wanted everyone to know how much they meant to him. Driven by a deep desire to serve others, he often spoke of his Navy days and enjoyed attending veteran events. At his core, he wanted to be needed, and he found great purpose in caring for and encouraging those around him.

Standing 6'5", Stan was affectionately known as "Big Stan" in many circles. His imposing height was matched by his larger-than-life personality, sense of humor, kindness, and compassion. After retiring from LSU, he founded his own locum tenens company, Mid South Anesthesia Services, and continued providing compassionate anesthesia care across the ArkLaTex region and into New Mexico until health no longer permitted.

Stan was well known and well liked by the residents and staff at Brookdale Senior Living, who shared many fond memories and funny stories from his time there. He cherished the opportunity to help others and appreciated feeling valued and connected. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Brookdale staff for their excellent care and unwavering support during Stan's final days—they truly went above and beyond.

Stan loved animals, especially his beloved dog, Zeus, who was his constant companion. Zeus was very nearly always in his presence and never out of his mind. He also loved traveling, sharing good meals with loved ones, and creating memories wherever life took him.

Above all, he deeply loved his wife, Del J. Crawford. They were married for 31 years, and her memory remained close to his heart after her passing. Their bond was one that continued beyond this life, and he found comfort in the thought of being reunited with her. His favorite place was their home in the country, where they found peace, comfort, and contentment.

He is survived by his son, Robert L. Crawford and wife Kelly; grandchildren Brady Howard, Maryella Crawford, and Madeline Crawford. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Del J. Crawford and his parents, Corrance and Clois Crawford of Lubbock.

Stan leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his stories, his laughter, his compassion, and his unwavering expressions of love. Though he will be greatly missed, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and in the reminder he gave so freely: never miss an opportunity to tell someone you love them. He was loved deeply, and he will be remembered always.