Arlene Faye Crawford

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Arlene built her life upon the foundations of love, laughter, and cherished connections.

Arlene Faye Crawford, née Potrafke, left this world on July 29, 2026, at the age of 74, surrounded by family. Born on October 30, 1951, in Cincinnati, Arlene built her life upon the foundations of love, laughter, and cherished connections. She touched all who knew her with an open heart and a poignant story from her life's experiences.

Arlene filled her home and community with kindness and an infectious joy that radiated in every story she shared. She was known for her delight in storytelling—bringing past events and family lore to vivid, heartfelt life. She had a penchant for volunteering; in school PTA, at church, and in countless acts of service to others. Her life experiences were shared openly, with a candor that made her tales unforgettable to countless people she spoke to. Arlene's love extended deeply to her pets, who brought her comfort and companionship and were always part of her circle of affection. Above all she loved Jesus, and sought to share His love with everyone she met.

Family stood at the center of Arlene's world. She is survived by her devoted sons, Lee Crawford and Aaron Crawford, who carry forward her love and legacy in their own families. Her beloved grandchildren—Donovan, Locke, Riley, and Amelia Crawford—were always near and dear to her heart. Arlene's extended family includes her treasured sister, Carol McKee, and loving sisters-in-law, Jan Crawford and Rita Potrafke. Each of them held a special place in her heart and shared in the tapestry of meaningful relationships that defined her life.

She is now reunited with those she loved who have gone before her: her husband, Jay Crawford; her brother, David Potrafke; her parents, Ralph and Faye Potrafke; and her brother-in-law, Bill McKee. The memories they created together live on in stories retold around family tables, echoing in every heartfelt remembrance.

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She was known for her delight in storytelling—bringing past events and family lore to vivid, heartfelt life.

Arlene’s life was marked by the simple, profound acts of caring for those around her—stories told, meals shared, furry friends cradled in her lap. As we remember her now, what endures is the warmth she brought into countless lives, and the way she showed, day by day, how powerful love and connection can be.

Family and friends are invited to honor Arlene’s memory at a visitation on August 6, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Hodapp Funeral Homes - West Chester, 8815 Cincinnati Columbus Rd., West Chester, OH 45069. A funeral service will follow at the same location, beginning at 11:00 AM. Afterward, we will meet for the burial at Williamsburg Cemetary - 824 Gay St, Williamsburg, OH 45176.

Arlene Faye Crawford’s story continues in each person who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she has left our sight, her love remains—a lasting legacy written in the hearts of all who cherished her.