Gearldean Mae DeSpain-Crawford

Gearldean “Mae” DeSpain Crawford, 91, of Fredericktown, MO, formerly of Wayne County, passed away Saturday, June 5, 2021, at her residence surrounded by family.

Mae was born February 20, 1930, at Bollinger County, MO, daughter of Floyd and Audrey (Rickman) Bollinger. On April 5, 1945, she was united in marriage to John Despain. She was later married to Ervin E. Crawford in October of 1996. Mae was a Christian lady that loved her family dearly. Her grandchildren had a special place in her heart. She was known for her fried chicken and chicken and dumplins. Mae had worked at International Hat Factory, Brown Shoe and was a cook at restaurants. Mae had also ran the Turkey Creek and Buckhorn Store. She had past attended New Home church at Silva, MO.

Mae is survived by her loving children: John F. DeSpain and wife Judy of Silva, MO, Bobby Gene DeSpain and wife Mitzi of Perryville, MO, “Gerri” Brotherton and husband Ronnie of Patton, MO, Lois Martin and husband Gary of Millersville, MO, Jane Parker and husband Jim of Fredericktown, MO; fourteen grandchildren and many great and great-great grandchildren. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husbands; one son, James Franklin DeSpain; one brother, August Bollinger; and one sister, Georgene Newell.

She will be loved and missed.

Visitation was held at 5:00 pm, Monday, June 7, 2021, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Greenville Chapel. Funeral service was held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, June 7, 2021, also in the Greenville Chapel. Pastor Mike Huffman and Pastor Daniel Weyand ministered to the family. Josh DeSpain, Jeff DeSpain, Travis parker, Dustin Grover, Derek DeSpain, Chad DeSpain, Glen Weber, Greg Brotherton, Josh Marin served as pallbearers. Burial followed at Graham Cemetery, Silva. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gearldean Mae DeSpain-Crawford, please visit our floral store.