Robert Edwin Crain, 86, was a lifetime resident of Greenbrier before passing to heaven on March 7th following a brief illness. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church in Greenbrier on Wednesday, March 11 at 2pm with visitation following until 5pm.
Robert (Bob) was born in 1939 to Lillian and Clyde Crain; he was the second born of five children and the oldest son. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings (Barbara Crain, Carolyn Haynes, Charlotte Dunnivant and Sam Crain) and his beloved grandson, Jonathan Crain.
Bob learned from an early age to love Jesus and others deeply. Caring about people and helping where he could was the pattern of his life.
He went on mission trips, taught children’s Sunday School, coached Little League, organized class reunions, delivered meals, built things and always enjoyed a good banana pudding.
While he wasn’t one to laugh out loud, he did have a perpetual smile and twinkle in his eye as he greeted you warmly, pulled your leg or made a witty observation.
Bob made and gathered friends his whole life. He talked easily, asked questions and was genuinely interested in connecting with others. He was a quiet leader, a problem solver and an encourager, especially with his family; each with whom he shared a special unique bond that was their very own. He will be remembered fondly by so many as he stayed connected to classmates, co-workers, neighbors, kids he taught and coached, relatives and church members.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Diane Briley Crain, and their three children: Donna (Gary) Heflin, Gregg (Jill) Crain, and Bill (Ana) Crain. His legacy includes grandchildren Zach (Jessica) Claus, Russ Heflin, Taylor (John) Brown, Lara Heflin, Justin Crain, Gabrielle Crain, Briley Crain, eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Daily Bread Ministry of Greenbrier First Baptist Church where Bob was an active member for 75 years.
