Wendell E. Crews

Wendell E. Crews, 74, of Pikeville died Thursday, July 14, 2011 in Kindred Hospital in Chattanooga. He was born December 5, 1936 in DeQueen, Arkansas.

He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving his country from 1956-1960. He was also a graduate of Arkansas State University.

Crews was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Mildred Speaks Crews of DeQueen, Arkansas; and a brother, Quintas A. Crews, of Arkansas.

He is survived by his wife, Avis Harris Crews of Pikeville; son, Gary Steven Crews of Dallas, Texas; sister, Rhonda (Jim) Woodruff of Rogers, Arkansas; nephews, Kyle Woodruff and Patrick (Meredith) Woodruff, both of Bentonville, Arkansas; special cousin, Barbara (Dr. J. Richard) Wallace of Dallas, Texas; and sister-in-law, Becky (William) Simmons of Pikeville.

A celebration of his life, officiated by Pastor Greg Smartt, was held graveside at Pikeville Cemetery on July 11. He received burial with full military honors provided by our American Legion Post 066. Serving as pallbearers were Jim Woodruff, William Simmons, Greg Simmons, Willie Ray Johnson, Mark Mosley and Billy R. Merriman.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked memorial contributions be made to Pikeville United Methodist Church in his memory.

Please share your thoughts on line with the family at www.pikevillefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were made by Pikeville Funeral Home in Pikeville.