Gail Ann Crawford died peacefully surrounded by her family and friends February 27, 2024, in Wanette at the age of 73 years 5 months 21 days. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 2, 2024, at the Wadley’s Funeral Chapel, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service. Online condolences may be made, and services live streamed at www.wadleysfuneralservice.com.
Gail was born September 6, 1950, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Wayne and Lorena Gail (Spencer) Shepherd. She was raised in Oklahoma City, graduating from Northwest Classen High School in 1968.
On June 1, 1968, she married Jesse Allen Tecumseh, Jr., and were together for eight years before separating as friends. On July 2, 1979, she married Raymond Earl Crawford, Jr., and spent 29 years together before Raymond passed in 2008.
Gail’s artistic talents blossomed through the intricate art of crochet. With skilled hands and a generous heart, she crafted countless baby blankets that became cherished gifts. Her passion for crocheting extended beyond personal projects as she imparted her knowledge through teaching classes at her church.
As a founding pillar of Victory Pointe Baptist Church in Wanette, Gail dedicated herself to various roles within the congregation. She served as the church treasurer for numerous years while finding joy in teaching Sunday school and overseeing the nursery. A compassionate soul to the core, Gail spearheaded initiatives such as organizing Christmas Meals on Wheels and leading clothing giveaways to support those in need. In her younger years, Gail attended Falls Creek as a youth and later in life as a sponsor and played on her church’s softball team.
Throughout her career journey, which traversed various paths, Gail’s dedication shone brightly. From obtaining a beauty license to assist her mother in their family shop to her tenure at the University of Oklahoma where she eventually retired from the Athletic Department Business Office in 2012 – every chapter showcased her unwavering commitment and work ethic. Her deep-rooted love for sports led her to become a respected track official at sporting events while also becoming an ardent fan of OU sports, with women’s basketball and softball holding a special place in her heart.
Gail’s interests extended beyond her professional endeavors as she found solace in fishing escapades, delving into captivating reads, and indulging in the enchantment of Harry Potter movies. A gifted storyteller since youth, she penned captivating short stories that were cherished by many. Gail was very community minded and served on the Wanette City Council and as Vice-Mayor.
She loved spending time with her family, and her extended family. Gail was “Nano,” “Grandma” or “Aunt Gail” to all that knew her. Leaving an indelible mark on all whose lives she touched is Gail’s enduring legacy.
Gail was preceded in death by her father and stepmother, Wayne and Bonita Shepherd; her mother and stepfather, Lorena and Gene Sawyer; her husband, Raymond Crawford, Jr.; her first husband, Jesse Tecumseh, Jr.; her brother, Robert “Bobby” Shepherd; and her nephew, Ricky Shepherd.
Survivors include her daughter, Teresa Tecumseh; her son, Chris Tecumseh and wife, Wendy; her foster daughter, Stephanie Long; her stepdaughters, Nikki Montfort, Tracie Floyd and Kyra Montfort; her grandchildren, Kyle Tecumseh and wife, Ricki, Jordan Tecumseh, Taylor Craig and Shannon Tedrick; her brother, Rodney Shepherd; her sister, Shauna Shepherd; and numerous bonus children, grandchildren and other relatives and friends.
The brilliance of Gail’s spirit will forever remain etched within our hearts—guiding us with love even beyond this earthly farewell.
