Joe Crawford, a beloved basketball coach and educator, died on June 30, 2026, at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy that spanned four decades of teaching and coaching in Texas.
Early Years and Education
Born on March 2, 1957, in Carthage to Charles Joseph Crawford and Velma Louise Layne Crawford, Crawford excelled at Henderson High School, where he still holds the basketball scoring record. He continued his studies at Kilgore College, graduating in 1977, before earning a Bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1979.
His professional journey began in the classroom, where he taught World History, U.S. History, Texas History, and Health, while also leading multiple sports programs. Over 43 years he amassed more than 400 career wins, guiding 18 teams to the playoffs and capturing a state track championship at Dallas Christian.
Visitation for Coach Crawford will be held on July 6, 2026, at Crawford‑A. Crim Funeral Home in Henderson, giving friends, former players, and colleagues a chance to pay their respects.
Survivors include his wife Susan Crawford, mother‑in‑law June Craig, children Emily Ellis, Kelcey Foughty and Brady Crawford, and grandchildren Jace Foughty, Kipp Crawford and Kash Crawford, who was expected to arrive later that summer.
Beyond the gym, Crawford was an avid collector of firearms and guitars, teaching himself to play the latter, and he never missed a Texas Longhorns, Dallas Cowboys or Texas Rangers game.
His family described him as kind, strong, a devoted husband and father, and an excellent educator. He would be honored to have former coaching colleagues and players serve as honorary pallbearers.