Obituary of George Edward Crumbly

George Edward Crumbly, Sr., 82, of Auburndale, FL, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, January 5, 2015, surrounded by a loving family, following a brief but courageous fight with brain cancer. Mr. Crumbly was born July 15, 1932, in Davenport, FL. He graduated from Haines City High School in 1950 and served in the U. S. Marine Corp from 1952-1955, including a tour in Korea. After his honorable discharge, he met and married the love of his life, Jo Ann McGill, after a 10-day courtship. He had a life-long career in the citrus industry, beginning at the University of Florida Experiment Station followed by a stellar 35-year career at Minute Maid (Coca Cola Foods) where he retired as the State Harvesting Manager. After retirement, he continued to work as a citrus consultant for King Ranch (Running W Citrus). Despite his career success, Mr. Crumbly's greatest pride was his family - kids, grandkids and great-grands were his joy. After his retirement, he and his wife seized the opportunity to follow, cheer on and mentor their twelve grandchildren, following their numerous activities and attending their sporting events across the country. His joy was multiplied with the addition of great-grandchildren, who also loved spending time with their "Pappy." Mr. Crumbly was a devoted Christian, having served as a preschool Sunday School teacher and in numerous other church capacities. Mr. Crumbly was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lizzie Mae Crumbly, siblings, Louis, Elizabeth O'Neal, and John, Jr., and a nephew, Tom O'Neal. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Jo Ann Crumbly of Auburndale; three sons, Rev. George E. (Donna) Crumbly, Jr., of Cabot, AR, Dave (Louan) Crumbly of Winter Haven, and Steve (Rose) Crumbly of Orlando; one daughter, Lisa (Frank) Schlagel of Auburndale. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Also, by one sister, Erma (Jim) Anderson, of Vero Beach. A visitation will be held for family and friends at Oak Ridge Funeral Home, 2425 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven on Thursday, January 8, 6p-8p. Services will be held on Friday, January 9 at 1p at the funeral home chapel. Interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Davenport, FL. Condolences may be sent at www.oakridgefuneralcare.com.