D'Arline "Pud" Robinson Crawford

D'Arline "Pud" Robinson Crawford, whose larger-than-life personality and adventurous spirit touched the hearts of everyone she met, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, at the age of 90. Known simply as "Pud" to all who knew her—this nickname given to her as a baby and shortened from "Pudding”, she lived a full life and was an inspiring force in every community she joined. Born in Oklahoma City on May 12, 1934, Pud developed an early love for the outdoors. Summers spent on a ranch in Creede, Colorado, and weekends at the family cabin in Newcastle, Oklahoma, shaped her appreciation for nature. At the age of 14, her parents sent her off to a boarding school to help her come out of her shell, and it worked—beautifully. Within her first semester, Pud was elected president of the student senate, was a leader in every sport, and was a popular figure among her peers. She went on to attend the University of Oklahoma, where she pursued a degree in education. After college, Pud married her first husband and moved to Texas. Divorcing her first husband, Pud moved back to Oklahoma where she raised her daughter, Lezlee. During this time, Pud earned her master’s degree and moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma where she began teaching deaf children, a career that she spoke of with pride for the rest of her life. Pud’s life took another turn when she met Bob Crawford, the love of her life. The couple married and raised Lezlee together, blending their families as Bob brought his eight children from his first marriage into their lives. Over the years, Pud and Bob moved frequently, following his work, but Pud always found meaningful work wherever they went. They lived in New Orleans, Clearwater, Florida, and Bentonville, Arkansas, before settling in Farmington, New Mexico. In each community, Pud was involved in volunteering, whether it was at the local history museum or the animal shelter, always giving her time and energy to causes that were close to her heart. After Bob's passing, Pud moved to Missoula, Montana, to be near her brother, Tom, and his family. It was there, at Grizzly Peak, that Pud spent the final years of her life. She was a beloved resident, known for her vivacity and her ability to light up any room she entered. Whether she was sharing stories, laughing with friends, or simply offering a smile, Pud's presence was one that brought joy to all who knew her. Pud was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bob, her brother Tom, and many beloved family members and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Lezlee (Kirk) Ellison, her many stepchildren and step grandchildren, her many nieces and nephews, and a host of lifelong friends. Pud chooses to be memorialized through donations made in her name to the La Plata County Humane Society in Durango, CO, an animal shelter of your choice, St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, or the Arbor Day Foundation.

Pud's vibrant spirit, boundless energy and endless love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in Peace in, Pud - your legacy of love, laughter, and leadership will continue to inspire us all.