Glen Ray Crumpler

Glen Ray Crumpler, 78, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in Tyler, Texas, with family by his side.

Glen was born in Paducah, Texas, on August 18, 1946. After graduating from Paducah High School in 1966, he followed in the footsteps of three of his older brothers and joined the military where he served in the Air Force for over 22 years. He earned the rank of MSGT E-7 and served as a Structural Specialist. During his military career, he had the opportunity to serve his country in the Vietnam War and in various other posts across the United States and abroad receiving numerous military decorations.

Upon his retirement from the military, Glen lived and worked outside of Birmingham, Alabama, for Alabama Aircraft Industries, retiring in 2008. In September 2024, he relocated to Tyler, Texas, to be closer to his family.

Glen was a passionate sports fan. He loved both college and professional football, spending many Saturdays and Sundays cheering on his favorite teams. Golf was another passion, and he played whenever he could. And, while we won't admit or deny it here, he may have been known to involve his nieces and nephews in friendly wagers on sporting events. Just ask the family who held the better track record! And if you know the Crumplers, you already know you won’t get a straight answer!

All kidding aside—Glen, though without children of his own, loved his nieces and nephews dearly, treating them as his own. His gentle kindness and humility were among his most cherished qualities. Even after retirement, his service-oriented spirit continued to shine as he contributed to his community by tending the local cemetery and his never-ending willingness to lend a hand to his church family. He also found great joy in returning to Paducah for the renowned All-School Reunions, where he reconnected with old friends.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Rena Crumpler, and siblings John, Bobby, Cora, Dorothy, Eugene, and Iris Ray. He is survived by his brothers Freddie (Donna) Crumpler and Hollis Crumpler, sister Freida (Jerry) Reed, sister-in-law Betty (Eugene) Crumpler, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.