Thomas A. Crawford

 Thomas A. Crawford, 53, of New Castle passed into the hands of his lord and savior Jesus Christ at his home on May 28, 2024.

Thomas was born March 15, 1971, in New Castle, PA. He was the son of Thomas and Susan (Proch) Crawford.

He was a graduate of Shenango High School, class of 1990. Following graduation, Thomas enlisted in the United States Navy on September 5, 1990. He was assigned to the USS Wasp (LHD-1), a multi-purpose amphibious assault ship. The ship's primary mission was and still is: to support U.S. Marines in combat and to provide disaster relief and medical support to those in need. 

Thomas served his country honorably, and he earned the promotion of E-4, Petty Officer Third Class. In1994, he was awarded a Letter of Commendation, which was presented to him in person by the Rear Admiral of the United States Navy: "For exemplary performance of his duties while serving as Flight Deck Tractor King on the USS WASP … Petty Officer Crawford distinguished himself by displaying outstanding initiative, superb management capability, and technical expertise in support of the Task Group's mission during Operations SUPPORT/UPHOLD DEMOCRACY. His outstanding performance as Tractor King and Support Equipment Operator resulted in over 1,500 flawless aircraft handling evolutions, more than 5,000 mishap-free helicopter shipboard takeoffs and landings, and ensured quick response and decisive action to prevent any potentially dangerous situations from occurring…” He spent the following year in VA Hospitals. Thomas was Honorably Retired from the US Navy on May 30, 1995, in Pittsburgh, PA.

His family knew him as “Tommy”: an exceptionally loving son, brother and uncle. He had a great passion for sports - especially football and baseball. He loved watching and talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers & the Pirates. He was almost always wearing NFL & MLB clothing and hats.

Tommy also enjoyed family get-togethers, picnics, and taking vacations with his family to the Carolinas. His smile and good sense of humor was loved by his entire family. His greatest joy was spending time with family and friends. 

In addition to his parents, Thomas is survived by his sister, Laura J. (Michael) Chionchio; and niece, Kelly Nolan, all of New Castle, PA.

Thomas was preceded in death by both his paternal and maternal grandparents; and his younger brother, Shawn W. Crawford.

Private family service was held earlier this week. Local arrangements entrusted to the Noga Funeral Home, 1142 S Mill Street. The family respectfully asks that instead of sending flowers that you might consider sending a donation to Wounded Warrior Project in Tommy’s memory.

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