Kathryn S. Crawley, "Kitty," 89, passed away September 9, 2021. Kathryn was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and teacher. She was born on April 7, 1932, in Gloucester, VA. She was a faithful member at First Morning Star Baptist Church in Gloucester. She later earned her Bachelor's Degree at Virginia State University. Shortly after graduating, she moved to Newport News, VA, where she began her career as a 5th-grade teacher at Newsome Park Elementary School. There she became a faithful member at Second Baptist Church East End. After her marriage to Herman G. Crawley (deceased), she began to fellowship with Tabernacle Baptist Church where she remained a faithful member. At the height of integration, Mrs. Crawley was coined as a "better teacher" and transferred to South Morrison  Elementary School as the first African American faculty member.

She leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter, Cassandra "Connie" Crawley Mayo (Michael); sisters, Beverly Ward and Janice Ward Smith (Lance); brothers, Michael Ward (Sharon) and Tony Ward; nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends.

All services will take place at O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home. A viewing will be held Friday, September 17, from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm. She will lie in state from 9:00 am – 11:00 am on Saturday morning, September 18th. The service commemorating and celebrating Kathryn's life will begin at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 18th.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.