Rose Marie Crookston

Rose Marie Crookston, a cherished and respected member of the Salem community, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on October 4, 1935, at the home of her aunt, Rose Riley in Lisbon, to the late Floyd Paul Crawford and Matilda "Tillie" (Muhleman) Crawford, Rose Marie's life was one of dedication, service, and love.

After graduating from Salem High School in 1953, she embarked on a career that would span several decades, marked by her meticulous nature and strong work ethic. Rose Marie served as a secretary for Mullins Manufacturing and Drs. Kilgore and Goldman before finding her long-term professional home at Hunt Valve, where she retired after 26 years in accounts receivables.

She was a devoted wife to her late husband, Billy G. Crookston, and the two of them were happily married for 54 years. Together they raised a loving family. Rose Marie is survived by her son, David Crookston of Leetonia; daughters, Deborah (Nelson) Thomas of Salem, and Denise (Donald) Isaacs of Raleigh, N.C.; her brother, William "Butch" (Patty) Crawford of Racine, Wis.; and was preceded in death by her brothers, Paul "Jack" Crawford, and sisters, Mary Lucille Crawford and Betty Jane Cannon.

Rose Marie's legacy extends to her adoring grandchildren, Kelli (Kent) Brenneman, Kari (Lance) Newburn, Kyle (Jessica) Kyser, Logan Isaacs, and Landon Isaacs, as well as her great-grandchildren, Weston Newburn, Aubrey Newburn, Jacoby Kyser, and Kendrick Brenneman, who will forever cherish the memories and lessons she imparted.

Beyond her family, Rose Marie was deeply involved in her community. She was a beacon of faith and service at the Salem First Presbyterian Church, where she taught Sunday School and served as a deacon. Her leadership extended to various organizations, including the Salem Elks #305 Auxiliary, where she was a past president, and the Eastern Stars, where she diligently served as secretary for 10 years. Rose Marie was also an active member of the Salem Italian American Club and the Salem Eagles, where her presence was always a source of joy and camaraderie.

The family of Rose Marie Crookston will have a private family service at Stark Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Trina Lewis officiating. Burial will take place at Hope Cemetery.

Her memory will be cherished, and her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched.

When I’m Gone

When I come to the end of my journey

And I travel my last weary mile

Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned

And remember only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken;

Remember some good I have done.

Forget that I ever had heartache

And remember I’ve had loads of fun.

Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered

And sometimes fell by the way.

Remember I have fought some hard battles

And won, ere the close of the day.

Then forget to grieve for my going,

I would not have you sad for a day.

But in summer just gather some flowers

And remember the place where I lay,

And come in the shade of evening

When the sun paints the sky in the west.

Stand for a few moments beside me

And remember only my best.

Mrs. Lyman Hancock

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

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