From Friends in Negril, Jamaica

In our North-West corner of Jamaica, right here at Charela Inn, on the Negril beach, we have had the good fortune of meeting Charles and Nancy Crawford on several occasions.  Their obvious love for each other, their joy of life and their humanity in all their endeavours have left their imprint on us all.  The passing away of Charles has saddened us, but our memories of this great gentleman continue to enrich our lives.  It is with great love and respect that we send this message to Nancy and the Crawford family.  

From Sylvie and Daniel Grizzle, Charmaine, Sophie, Marcia, Debbie, Clive, Carolyn, Jacqueline and all the staff of Charela Inn.

charles

Charles was more than just a person I knew. He felt like a father to me. Charles was always so happy. You would always see a smile on his face. I loved that about him and will miss most about him. He loved going to the beach and going on the boat in Wilmington. I had the best time hanging out with the Charles and his family. The memories of al the dinners we shared each night at his house with Anna, Nancy, Harrison and his mother, Anne. I wish I could of known him a bit longer and learned more from him. He always made me feel good about myself. He always listened to me. He was the kind of man that I would like to be as an adult. Thank you for sharing him with me. Love, Andy

Mr. Crawford

I loved coming over to your house in high school.  Your dad was always seemed to be awaiting my arrival and would open the door and yell out my name before I got to the front step.  He always greeted me with the greatest hug and would tell me how great I was and would lead me into the family room and just talk to me.  Thinking about it now, brings the biggest smile to my face.  I remember my senior year of Lacrosse.  He was, of course, at every game.  He loved nothing more than watching you play Camie and was your greatest fan.  I remember that I didn't have the greatest season and didn't play much at all that year.  I remember always being sad after a game where I hadn't played much at all.  Your Dad always greeted me with the biggest smile and hug and would tell me how stupid the coaches were for not having played me.  He would make some funny joke. and suddenly I was laughing and no longer upset about the game.  He did it every time and I always appreciated him trying to make me feel better.  It always worked.  He was always so aware of those who were down or sad in any way and knew the perfect solution to brighten their day.  He brightened so many of mine.  I miss him.  I am so grateful for the time that I was able to spend with him; it was always a treat.  I left his memorial service with a greater desire to be a little kinder, a little happier, and it made me want to try to always see the good in every situation.  Your Dad's life and legacy made me want to be better in every way.  What a fabulous man and what a wonderful example he has been to us all.  He meant so much to so many people and we are all better for having known him.  

It was an honor to know Charles. Andy considered him to be a father figure - role model to aspire to in his life. You never know how events and people will affect you. Had Andy not dated Anna and been part of her family for three years, we would have never known Charles and his wonderful family - Anne, Corey, Jessa, Camie and Nancy. The smiles you shared. The poise and grace. The generous nature of opening up your home to those you knew. We were very sad to hear about Charles' death. I had so much hope that he could out-run his cancer and that we could see him cuddle more grandchilren, walk more dogs and greet more people in that Southern manner that was so special. You and your family are in our prayers. You know that he was loved by many and by Andy. Take care. Wyndy

For Jesa and family

Jesa,

Although Anthony and I have not known you long, we knew right away that you would be a friend to us. You are such a wonderful person, always full of energy and warmth. If you are a chip off the old block then we know your father was an astonishing person!! We just wanted to let you know know that we love you and if you ever need anything, anything at all, we are here for you. Our deepest sympathy.

Love,

Stacy and Anthony