Marlynne Lou Crawford

October 21, 1935 – January 3, 2025

Marlynne Lou Crawford age 89 has joined her parents in heaven on January 3, 2025.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Marlynne Lou Crawford, a beloved wife, teacher, and friend, who entered eternal rest on January 3, 2025, at the age of 89. Marlynne was born on October 21, 1935, in Madison Heights, Michigan, the youngest of six daughters to Franklin Kellog and Elizabeth Davis. She now rejoins her parents and sisters Katherine Ross, Bernie Miller, Barbara Wojtysiak, and Joan Bentz in heaven.

From an early age, Marlynne’s life was deeply rooted in faith. After completing high school and college, she answered a spiritual calling and became an Adrian Dominican Sister. She dedicated herself to education and the mission of Jesus. As a former Adrian Dominican Sister, Marlynne embraced the values of community, love, justice, and peace, teaching in various cities as part of her ministry.

Due to medical reasons, Marlynne transitioned out of the convent and later met Gerald “Gerry” Crawford in Troy, Michigan. The two were married for 46 years, building a life together in the Rochester area. Marlynne continued her passion for teaching, spending over a decade in parochial schools before joining the Warren Public School System, where she taught for more than 30 years. She furthered her expertise in education by earning a Master’s Degree from Oakland University.

After retiring in 1996, Marlynne and Gerry moved to Luzerne, Michigan, where they built their retirement home and embraced a quieter pace of life. A year later, they began volunteering at their local nursing home, where Gerry brought joy by playing the piano and calling bingo, while Marlynne assisted residents with their bingo cards or read to the residents in their rooms bringing joy and comfort to many. On their farm in Luzerne, they raised cattle. Marlynne often watched with great excitement from the windows, finding joy in the serene beauty of their surroundings.

During their years in Rochester, Marlynne and Gerry enjoyed cruising the Great Lakes. Gerry had purchased a cabin cruiser before they were married, which they kept in Bay City. Despite hectic Friday night drives from Rochester, they often found themselves in Tawas within hours, cherishing memorable weekends on the water.

Their adventures later extended to the skies. Gerry pursued his pilot’s license, earning both a basic and instrument license, which allowed the couple to explore new horizons. These flights brought Marlynne to Florida to spend Christmas with her two sisters, creating treasured memories that will forever be cherished.

Marlynne’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith, dedication to family, and passion for education. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Gerry, loving sister, Audrey Campana and a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and former students.

A Celebration of Marlynne's Life will be announced in the near future.

Arrangements entrusted to Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.