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William Baker “Sonny” Crutcher, Jr., age 94, of Athens, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 22, 2025. He was born on November 20, 1930, to William Baker Crutcher, Sr. and Julia Hurst Crutcher.
A proud graduate of Athens High School, Sonny soon answered the call of duty by enlisting in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. After serving his country with honor, he returned home to Athens and worked alongside his father at Crutcher and Sons Hardware. He later began a long and dedicated career at Huntsville Coca-Cola, where he served as Distribution Manager.
Beyond his professional life, Sonny was deeply involved in his community. As an active member of the Athens High School Band Parents Association, he enthusiastically supported “The Pride of Athens,” the Golden Eagle Marching Band. He enjoyed every aspect of his time with the band program—band camp, countless trips, Friday night football games, chicken stew fundraisers, pancake suppers, the many friendships made, and more. His energy and commitment left lasting memories for students and families alike.
Following retirement, Sonny, along with his son and son-in-law, operated C&R Swine Farm—a venture that brought plenty of hard work, countless laughs, and more than a few good stories. It was a time he truly enjoyed, mixing family, farming, and friendship in equal measure.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Margaret Ann Crutcher White, and his brother John Marshall Crutcher, Sr. He is survived by his wife of almost seventy years, Joe Ann Chambers Crutcher; his daughter, Canna Crutcher Ricketts (Randy); and his son, William Baker Crutcher, III. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Chambers Crutcher Ricketts (Melissa), Jacob Alexander Ricketts (Meagan), and Annalear Ricketts Davis (Nicholas); as well as his great-grandsons, Noah William Ricketts, Samuel Arthur Ricketts, Ethan Marshall Ricketts, Sonny Radford Ricketts, and Grady Aaron Davis; along with several nieces and nephews. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the most treasured parts of his life.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Spry Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Athens City Cemetery, with John Ryberg, Senior Minister of Athens First Methodist Church; Clint Coffey, Minister of First Christian Church, Athens; and Jeff Bayne, Retired United Methodist Minister, officiating.
Pallbearers will be Randy Ricketts, Chambers Ricketts, Jacob Ricketts, Nicholas Davis, Jay White, and Greg Anderson.
In remembrance of Sonny’s wonderful life, memorial contributions may be made to the Special Music Ministry Fund at Athens First Methodist Church.
Sonny’s love for his family will live on through the laughter and wonderful memories they will share with each other for many years to come.
