Bobby Ray Crabtree, age 78, of Marion, Ohio, passed away on January 18, 2026. He was born on March 6, 1947, in Marion, Ohio, to Elmer Crabtree and Dorothy (Tolle) Crabtree.
Bobby spent his life in Marion and attended Marion Harding High School. In June 1967, he married the love of his life, Emma (Gibson) Crabtree, in Marion, and she survives.
Bobby was a hardworking man who dedicated much of his life to providing for his family. When you look up the meaning of work ethics, you will see a picture of Bobby Crabtree. He worked over 15 years as a general laborer and manufacturer and later spent 25 years at Whirlpool, retiring in 2002.
Known to many as a true “homebody,” Bobby preferred the comfort of home over time around town. He took pride in caring for his family’s home, maintaining and improving the yardwork, and enjoying a good slice of pepperoni pizza—especially Tubby’s Pizza, one of his favorites. He could often be found pulling out a wrench to work on cars and was well known for his love of physical fitness, especially free-weight lifting, always stressing the importance of staying strong and healthy.
Bobby was also an animal lover, especially dogs—and cherished time with his beloved pup, Max. It wasn’t uncommon to see Bobby sitting in his chair with Max right there beside him, resting faithfully at his feet. A devoted Elvis Presley fan, Bobby proudly copied Elvis’s hair and style, wearing it like a badge of honor.
Above all, Bobby was a proud family man. He adored his grandchildren deeply and took his role as family protector seriously, standing strong for the ones he loved most.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Dorothy Crabtree, and his brothers, Gary Crabtree and Leslie Crabtree.
He is survived by his loving wife, Emma Crabtree; his children, Shawn (Dawn) Crabtree and Jennifer Lynn Landon; his brothers, Jack (Debbie) Crabtree, Billy (Kristi) Crabtree, and Jimmy Crabtree; his sisters, Freida (Roy) Mullins and Loretta Mullins; his grandson, Evan (Asia) Landon; and his great-grandson, Roman Landon, along with many other loved family members and friends.
Funeral services will be held at Boyd Funeral Home on Friday, January 23, 2026, with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Bobby will be laid to rest at Marion Cemetery, with procession following the service. Pastor Joe Harrison will officiate.
The Boyd Funeral Home appreciates the family’s trust during this difficult time and is honored to serve them.
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