Robert C. Crafton

Robert (Bob) C. Crafton, 90, died peacefully at his home in Louisville, KY on March 19, 2024. Bob was born September 27, 1933, in Spencer County, KY. He grew up in Louisville and graduated from Manual High School. He continued his education at the University of Louisville where he earned multiple degrees, pursuing a career in education. Bob proudly served in the United States Army as a member of the Army Band. During his career with Jefferson County Public Schools, Mr. Crafton first served as an elementary band director. He then went on to be the first band director of Pleasure Ridge Park High School, where he wrote the school’s fight song. He later transitioned to become a Counselor at PRP, then the Principal of Doss Junior High School. Mr. Crafton’s final position was as the first Principal of Conway Middle School, from which he eventually retired. Bob fell in love with Beverly Ann Borders in 1951 and they married in 1955. They were married 68 years. Together they raised two beautiful girls, Katherine Lynn and Donna Carol. Through the years, Bob enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and spending time at Lake Cumberland. He later returned to his love of music, playing the euphonium in the Derby City Brass Band, River City Concert Band, Commonwealth Brass Band, Heartland Winds Concert band, and many other part-time bands. He was an exceptional musician, skilled at multiple instruments, and well respected among his peers. Bob also enjoyed working in his yard and praised his wife’s home cooking. What he treasured most was spending time with his family. Bob attended Cornerstone Community Church. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Claud and Rella Crafton, and his daughter Donna Crafton McGee (David). He is survived by his loving wife; Beverly, daughter; Katherine Wolfe (Alan), brother; Ralph Crafton (Sheri), four grandchildren; Carla West, Jimmy Lyvers (Renee), Holly Lewis (Kyle), Jared Wolfe (Kelsey), eight great-grandchildren; Danielle Reed, C.J. West, Hannah West, Charlotte Lewis, Carrol West, Boston Lewis, Khloe Wolfe, and Oakland Lewis, and one great-great-grandchild; Keith Reed, along with a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Bob was a long-time supporter of University of Louisville athletics. If possible, we imagine he would love it if all his family and friends dressed in black and red during the visitation. He would also welcome University of Kentucky fans in their blue, although he would probably give you a hard time, as only Bob could. His funeral service will be at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, March 24, 2024, at Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Highway. Visitation will be from 2:00 - 8:00 p.m. Saturday, and 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Sunday at Owen Funeral Home. While flowers are appreciated, donations may also be made in Bob's name to: Cornerstone Community Church Youth and Children's Ministry 10600 Lower River Road, Louisville, KY 40272 or at cornerstonelouisville.com

Robert C. Crafton

September 27, 1933 - March 19, 2024