Coach Robert Crawley; Obituary, Death: It is with profound sadness and a broken heart that we announce the passing of our lifelong friend, brother, and local legend, Coach Robert Crawley. Robert, 63, passed away on January 14, 2025, following a medical procedure in Charlotte, North Carolina. His death leaves a deep and irreplaceable void in the hearts of his family, friends, former students, athletes, and the entire Morganton community.
His passing has touched the lives of countless people who had the privilege of knowing him, working with him, and learning from him. Born on May 5, 1961, in Morganton, Robert was a proud son of the community. His love for Morganton and the people within it was boundless, and he dedicated his life to serving others, particularly through the realm of sports.
His legacy as a coach, mentor, and friend will be felt for generations, as he impacted the lives of everyone he encountered with his kindness, his wisdom, and his dedication to teaching both the fundamentals of sports and the lessons of life. Robert was not just a coach; he was a mentor in the truest sense of the word. For over 40 years, he shared his passion for athletics with the youth of Morganton, inspiring hundreds of young men and women to be the best versions of themselves, both on and off the field.
As the head coach of several teams throughout his career, including high school football, basketball, and track, Robert not only honed the skills of his athletes but also instilled in them values of teamwork, discipline, respect, and perseverance. His teams were always more than just groups of athletes—they were families, bound together by the unbreakable bonds Robert fostered with his guidance and leadership.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Robert was known for his genuine, caring nature. His door was always open to those who needed advice or simply someone to talk to. His coaching style was not only about winning games but about building character. Robert understood that the lessons learned on the field—about overcoming adversity, being part of a team, and pushing oneself beyond perceived limits—were lessons that would last long after the final whistle blew. He was a coach who believed in his athletes, even when they didn’t believe in themselves.
Robert’s impact was not limited to just his athletes. His role as a teacher, father figure, and community leader touched the lives of everyone who crossed his path. He had a way of making everyone feel valued and important. Whether it was a high school student seeking advice on life, a former player coming back to visit, or a fellow coach looking for insight, Robert was always there with an encouraging word or a solution.
He had a unique ability to bring people together, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and unity wherever he went. In addition to his long career in coaching, Robert was also a dedicated member of the Morganton community. He served as a mentor and volunteer for local organizations, helping to organize events, fundraising efforts, and community outreach programs.
His efforts were not just for the athletes he coached but for the entire town. He believed in the power of community and worked tirelessly to make Morganton a better place for all. His unwavering support for local causes, his belief in the potential of young people, and his commitment to improving the lives of those around him were hallmarks of Robert’s character.
Robert’s family was the foundation of his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Crawley, with whom he shared 35 years of marriage. Their partnership was one of deep love, respect, and admiration, built on mutual support and understanding. Kathy was Robert’s greatest confidant, and together they raised two wonderful children, Daniel and Emily Crawley, who were the pride of their lives.
Robert’s love for his children was boundless, and he took great pride in watching them grow and achieve their own personal successes. Daniel and Emily inherited their father’s strong work ethic, integrity, and love for helping others, qualities that Robert instilled in them from a young age. In addition to his wife and children, Robert is survived by his cherished grandchildren, Lily and Henry Crawley, who brought joy to his life every day.
He loved spending time with them, sharing stories, and teaching them life lessons. Robert was a loving brother to his siblings, James Crawley (Susan) and Patricia Smith (Kevin), and a devoted uncle to his nieces and nephews. His extended family was incredibly important to him, and he always made sure to stay close to them, offering support and guidance whenever needed.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, James and Helen Crawley, who were both instrumental in shaping the man he became. They taught him the values of hard work, humility, and kindness—values that he carried throughout his life and passed on to the generations that followed him. Robert’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and his influence will continue to be felt long after his passing.
The loss of Coach Robert Crawley is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His contributions to the Morganton community, the lives of his athletes, and his family cannot be overstated. He was a man of great character, a natural leader, and a true friend to all who knew him. His impact on the lives of those around him is immeasurable, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, coaches, and community members.
A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Morganton First United Methodist Church, located at 1234 Church Street, Morganton, North Carolina. The service will be open to all who wish to honor his memory, with a visitation taking place from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM. Following the service, the family invites everyone to join them for a reception at the church hall to share stories, offer condolences, and celebrate the incredible life Robert led.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Robert Crawley Memorial Fund, which will support local youth sports programs in Morganton, carrying on Robert’s passion for athletics and community involvement. Donations can be made online or through the funeral home.
Coach Robert Crawley’s legacy is one of selfless service, unyielding love, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and the Morganton community, but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched. Rest in peace, Coach Crawley. You were a mentor, a friend, and a true legend, and you will never be forgotten.
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