Jonnie Ray Crabb

Jonnie Ray Crabb passed away on March 18, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Libby; his daughter, Stephanie Raiford (Brooks) of Cary, North Carolina; and his son, Jonnie Ray Crabb (Carrie) of Greenville, North Carolina. He was a devoted "Papa" to five grandchildren, Lauren Raiford, Will Raiford, Elizabeth Crabb, Patrick Crabb, and Ceilidh Crabb. He is also survived by his brothers Jim, Jeff, Jack, and Jay Crabb, and his sister, Jodi Austin, all of whom will forever miss his gentle smile.

Jonnie was preceded in death by his parents, James Dewey Crabb and Marion Robertson Crabb, and by his grandson, Will.

Born on August 21, 1951, in Danville, Virginia, Jonnie grew up in Fayetteville, North Carolina, a community he proudly called home for most of his life.

His life was marked by a deep sense of duty and service. Jonnie proudly served in the United States Navy, a chapter that took him to Dunoon, Scotland, where he met Libby, the love of his life. A proud veteran, he was rarely seen without a Navy ball cap. After completing four years of overseas service, Jonnie returned to Fayetteville with his bride to begin the next chapter of their lives together.

He began his career as a journeyman electrician and later earned his Associate Degree in Electrical Installation and Maintenance from Fayetteville Technical Institute. This technical skill and dedication led to a fulfilling 26-year career with Home Depot, where he became a trusted source of knowledge and kindness until his retirement in 2021.

Jonnie was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren. Two of the happiest days of his life were when he watched his children earn their college degrees.

Known for his gentle spirit, Jonnie never had a bad word to say about anyone. He could fix almost anything, but his greatest gift was the warmth he brought to every room without ever flipping a switch. Whether wearing his Navy cap or his orange apron, he carried himself with humility, kindness, and a smile that made everyone feel at home.

He loved riding his motorcycle and treasured the camaraderie that came with it. When he could no longer ride, he found joy in collecting Harley-Davidson shirts, often asking family members to pick one up on their travels so he could continue to share in that community.

The Crabb family wishes to express their profound appreciation to the Veterans Hospital in Durham and Duke Cancer Center for the exceptional care and compassion shown throughout his illness.

Though his hands are now at rest, the light he brought to his family and friends will never fade.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28 at 4pm at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Road, Garner NC 27529. A visitation will be held from 2 to 4 pm before the service.

A graveside service with military honors, will take place on Monday, April 13 at 12:00pm at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, 8220 Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake, NC 28390