Karen Lee

Crawford

Karen Lee Crawford, 65, passed away in Columbus, MS on Sept. 4, 2024 after a long battle with Small Cell Lung Cancer. She was born in the Anacostia, MD section of Washington, D.C. on Jan. 1, 1959 to Melvin Warren and Betty Lee (Tester) McKinney.

She was very close to her father, a Washington, D.C. policeman who became disabled during the Martin Luther King riots in 1968.

She had a contagious smile, a big heart, a brilliant sense of humor, and a bigger-than-life laugh. She loved her family beyond measure.

She graduated from Mount Vernon High School in Alexandria, VA and attended Northern Virginia Community College, completing a full course in auto parts identification & distribution. She was a valued and much sought-after employee at Ourisman Dodge parts department in VA & O'Reilly Auto Parts in MS.

She was an avid horsewoman and a multi-talented lady, displaying a passion for quilting, complex sewing, and gardening. She was self-taught in many disciplines.

Karen is survived by her husband of 42 years, Pat "Pops" Crawford, and two daughters: Briley (Jake) Johnson of Aberdeen, MS & Brandi (Johnathon) Robertson of Okalona, MS; two grandchildren: Reese and Raela Jane Robertson; two step-grandchildren: Sebastian & Annabelle Robertson. Also two brothers: Melvin McKinney, Jr. (wife Angela) of VA & Andy McKinney of NC plus several nieces and nephews and her church family.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her beloved horses: Tammy, Isyss, and Dixie.

As per her request there will be no viewing, no funeral, & no service. The family will host a "come as you are" Celebration of Life at Victory Baptist Church.