Roy Franklin Crawford Jr., 73, passed away at his home on September 23, 2026.

Roy was born January 22, 1953, in Wynne, Arkansas, to Roy Franklin Crawford Sr. and Frances (Stroupe) Crawford. He grew up in Vanndale, Arkansas, where he attended Vanndale Elementary School and later graduated from Cross County High School.

Early in life, Roy worked as a catfish farmer before beginning a career in construction. An outdoorsman, he had a lifelong love of hunting and fishing and harvested many trophy bucks over the years, including an impressive 21-point non-typical buck taken with a bow.

Roy also enjoyed playing music and was a member of the Pigtails Competition BBQ Team, which placed third overall at the 8th Annual Memphis in May International Barbecue Cooking Contest in 1985. He was of the Baptist faith.

Those who knew Roy will remember his quick wit and the good one-liner he always seemed to have ready. He was a truly genuine person and unmistakably original—a man who was simply himself wherever he went. He was also known locally for his bountiful tomato crops and for generously sharing his harvest with friends and throughout his community.

Roy is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dyanna Lynn Crawford; two sons, Bart (Denise) Crawford of Jonesboro and Matt (Crystal) Crawford of Greenbrier; and two granddaughters, Caroline and Clara Crawford of Greenbrier.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Franklin Crawford Sr. and Frances (Stroupe) Crawford; and his brother, Harry Crawford.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Emerson Memorial Chapel. A Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 p.m.