Neva Louise (Williford) Crumley went to be with her Lord after a fruitful life of almost 103 years on January 30, 2025. Neva was born on August 5, 1922 to Una and Jess Williford of Comanche County, Texas.
How does one summarize all a person can learn and teach others in more than a century of life well-lived? We will do our best. Neva loved family reunions, and is surely enjoying one of the best in the presence of her Creator. Neva truly exemplified the sacrifices and perseverance of the Greatest Generation, and showed her love for others through her actions and words.
Born the middle daughter of six children to a rancher and dairyman, she survived the Great Depression, finished high school, and soon became a licensed beautician, finding a job in Brownwood during WW2. It was there she was swept off her feet by her husband, who knew after their first meeting that she was special, and was determined to marry her. After their marriage and honeymoon, Cliff left for his assignment in the Pacific. Neva returned to the family homestead, where she gave birth to their first son and faithfully waited out the war. When peace came and Cliff returned home, they started a dairy farm. Neva was no stranger to the hard work of the dairy business, and managed the daily milk processing and delivery (with help from James) while Cliff was at work. And if that wasn’t enough to manage, they soon welcomed their second child — a daughter named Pat — who brought so much joy into their family. After the changes wrought by the Dust Bowl and a decision to leave the dairy business, she and Cliff eventually moved to Junction, Texas in 1959. And that same year, Stephen arrived (surprise!) to complete the family. Finally, the family moved to San Antonio in 1965 where she spent most of her remaining years.
Through all her trials, she proudly held on to these verses from Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Neva was a devout Christian, a social butterfly, and deeply believed in showing God’s love for others. This was evident in her consistent contributions to each of the church communities she was a part of — you could always count on her to show up, dessert in hand and ready to serve. Her convictions also led her to lead many Sunday Schools, both to invest in the next generation of youth and her fellow adults. Her selfless attitude motivated her to become a teacher’s aide for students with special needs in the late sixties; it was a profession she loved and continued until her retirement. Neva also loved to help everyone look and feel their best. Throughout her life, she kept current with her beautician’s license and held many a perm party for her sisters and sisters-in-law, and it was only natural that she later became a successful “Avon Lady.” She worked with her daughter to sew her a beautiful, custom, handmade wedding dress for her special day. Even after her retirement, she served on the sales teams at Joske’s and later Dillard’s, and yet again gained quite the following of loyal repeat customers. Though she impacted so many lives, there was no one more important to Neva than her family. She imparted countless memories and lessons on her children and grandchildren. She kept meticulous memory books of all the good times, and some of the hard times, too. And when grandchildren showed up at her home, they were always welcomed with open arms. She used her wisdom to teach them practical things like proper manners, sewing and baking, and more intangible lessons about grit and determination, about their parents’ lives, and the lessons of the Bible. She showed up at every educational milestone she could possibly make it to, often with her famous peanut butter Rice Krispie treats. She loved introducing her grandchildren to her many friends, and she gave them the intentional gift of quality time. When dementia clouded her memories, Neva never hesitated to express her gratitude, admiration, and love. She showed the love of Christ to those around her, even until the very end. The family would like to extend special thanks to Neva’s long time caretaker Nancy Foster for her many kindnesses and devotion.
Funeral services for Neva Crumley will be held at 11:00am Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Leatherwood Memorial Chapels in Brady. Interment will follow at Rest Haven Cemetery. Friends may view and/or sign Neva’s online memorial guest book at www.leatherwoodmemorialchapels.com.
Neva is survived by her three children — James Crumley, Jr. and his wife Jeanne of Arlington, Texas, Patricia “Pat” Hurt of Dilley, Texas and Stephen “Steve” Crumley and his wife, Linda of The Woodlands, Texas. Neva counted as blessings every one of her 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren: Jason Crumley of Arlington, Texas, his wife, Venus, and their children, Cathryn, Alexander, and Mason John Paul Crumley of Arlington, Texas, and his son David Jay Crumley of Arlington Texas his wife, Ashley, and their children Farris, Rileigh, Judah, and Joshua. William Hurt of Dilley, Texas. Kimberly Hurt Smith of Dilley, Texas, her husband, Jake, and their daughters, Leona and Lodie. Sarah Crumley Flores of Austin, Texas, her husband, Chris, and their son, Dominic Luke Crumley of Austin, Texas.
Neva was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years James C. “Cliff” Crumley, her parents, her five siblings — Udell, Durward, Francis, Jess (Jr.) and Ann. She is also preceded in death by her in-laws, Hubert and Verda Crumley, Verba West, Nevella and Russell Sallee, and her son-in-law, Jim Hurt.