M. L. Crane

M.L. Crane, age 97 of Paris, TN, died Friday, May 7, 2021, at his residence.

He retired in 1978 from Ford Motor Company where he worked for 30 years.  He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving in World War II and the Korean War.  M.L. was a born-again Christian and a member of First Baptist Church in Paris, where he taught Sunday school, was an ordained deacon, and taught Vacation Bible School.  He helped build Russwood Baptist Church and other mission churches in the area.  He enjoyed fishing and playing golf.

M.L. was born April 25, 1924, in East Prairie, MO, to the late Dewey Crane and the late Mamie Kelley Crane.

He was married January 13, 1946, to Marguerite Graham Crane, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Crane (Doyle) Smith of Paris; his son, Marcus L. Crane of St. Louis, MO; seven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and eight great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by two sisters, Elva Wilson and Opal Smith.

Arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap St/PO Box 788, Paris, TN 38242.  The body is to be cremated with a graveside memorial service to be held Saturday May 15, 2021, at 11:00 am at Elmwood Cemetery in Blytheville, AR.