Connie Sue Crawford-Faries

Connie Sue Crawford Faries, a woman whose life radiated warmth, compassion, and a zest for adventure, passed away on August 31, 2023, at the age of 68. Born on August 15, 1955, in Dover, Ohio, Connie was the beloved daughter of Lyle G. Crawford and Sarah Katherine (Russell) Crawford.

Connie's life was marked by love and commitment, especially in her 24-year marriage to Harold Faries. They shared their faith as active members of Pleasant Ridge United Methodist Church, where their bond was strengthened through shared values and community spirit.

Connie's educational journey began at Tuscarawas Valley High School and continued with her graduation from Bowling Green University, where she earned a degree in Education. Her passion for teaching led her to inspire young minds as she taught home economics, driver's education, and the Grads program, supporting young mothers in completing their education. Connie's teaching career took her to various schools, including Monroe, Edgewood, and Butler County CTC. Throughout her career, she pursued her own education, earning a master’s in education from the University of Cincinnati.

In her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people's lives, Connie continued her educational pursuits, obtaining a master’s in social work from Miami University. Her compassion led her to various roles in the healthcare field, including working in an emergency room and dialysis unit. Connie's caring nature shone through her work at Atrium Medical, where she provided comfort and solace to those in need.

Connie was not only a dedicated professional but also an adventurous soul. She embarked on a remarkable journey, cycling across the country with the Bike Centennial, an experience that showcased her love for exploration and the great outdoors. In her leisure time, she found joy in sewing, quilting, golfing, lounging on the beach, and boating. Her heart overflowed with love for her dogs, and her circle of family and friends held a special place in her heart.

Connie Sue Crawford Faries will be remembered not only for her professional achievements and adventures but also for the love and kindness she shared with everyone she met. Her legacy of warmth and generosity will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Rodger Crawford, and niece, Michelle Kalb.

Connie is survived by her husband, Harold Faries, and stepchildren, Julie Conley, Stephanie Long, Brian Faries, and Scott Faries, whose lives she enriched with love and care.

Connie leaves behind cherished memories for her surviving siblings: Mary Lou Kalb (Roger), Edwin A. Crawford (Anne), Sandra K. Wood (Eugene), and sister-in-law Vondra Rufener (Dale).

Connie's loving presence extended not only to her nieces and nephews but also to numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. Among those fortunate to have her in their lives were Shawntel Crawford, Danielle Maciejezyk (Marcin), Justina Sanford (Chris), Heather Crawford Buerkle (Chris), Heidi Crawford Moffett (Evan), Brad Crawford (Bridget), Erin Crawford (Jennifer May), Kendra Slish (William), and Cory Stewart (Tiffany). Connie's nurturing spirit left a lasting and profoundly positive impact on each of their lives.

She also leaves behind a cherished lifelong friend, Becky Turner, with whom Connie has shared countless adventures and unforgettable memories and will always hold a special place in her heart. 

A memorial service to celebrate Connie's life will take place on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 11 a.m., with Pastor Jeff Franks Officiating. The service will be held at the Melscheimer School House Chapel, located at 1077 Melscheimer Street Southwest, East Sparta, OH 44626. Family and friends are invited to join together during this time to honor her memory and share their cherished stories of the incredible woman she was. Inurnment service will follow at Melscheimer Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Connie's name to a charity that reflects her spirit of generosity and compassion.

Connie's light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved her, and her memory will be a source of comfort and inspiration for years to come.

Arrangements are entrusted to Kreighbaum-Sanders Funeral Home, 4041 Cleveland Ave S, Canton, OH 44707.