Randall Lee Crabtree, age 82, of Petersburg, TN, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A funeral service will be held at 3 PM on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Jason Pagel officiating. Visitation with the family will take place from 1 PM until the time of service. A private burial will follow at Buchanan Pigg Cemetery on the family farm.
Born on March 23, 1943, in Lincoln County, TN, Randall was the son of the late Rayford Lee and Daddis Deane Rhodes Crabtree. He built a successful career in the sign industry before retiring after 20 years in marketing and sales with PPG Industries. In 1993, Randall and his wife Jolene returned to their roots in Lincoln County after living in Smyrna, TN, for 24 years. He was a devoted member of Friendship Church of Christ.
Randall was a man of many interests and talents. He was a skilled craftsman, creating and selling handmade wooden toys and leather goods under the name Crabtree Leather. He was a proud member of the Tennessee Longhunters Club and had a deep love for history, storytelling, and the great outdoors.
Known for his warm personality and sharp wit, Randall never met a stranger. He had a special fondness for riddles and puzzles, particularly sharing them with children, and was always ready with a good-natured prank or corny joke—especially on April Fools’ Day. His zest for life was also evident in his love of travel; he explored all 50 U.S. states and every national park, as well as numerous countries around the world. He was also an aficionado of great restaurants and good conversation.
Randall cherished his family and many dear, lifelong friends. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Jolene Pigg Crabtree; sons, Richard Lee Crabtree and Michael Alan Crabtree; brother, Ray Crabtree (Brenda); sisters, Pam Mills (Mike) and Michelle Decker (Donnie); and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friendship Church of Christ.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Randall Lee Crabtree.
