Ronald Wray Crabtree

Ronald Crabtree, age 96, of Knoxville, Tennessee, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on July 19th, surrounded by the love of his family. Ronald was born on May 4, 1930, in Colorado to Harry Eldon Crabtree and Eunice Crabtree. Throughout his life, he was known as a devoted husband and father whose love, strength, and guidance left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Ronald proudly served in the Korean War with the United States Navy with service aboard the USS Midway. Service was an important part of his life and reflected the courage, discipline, and commitment that he carried with him throughout the years. His family remains deeply proud of his service and grateful for the sacrifices he made on behalf of his country. Family was one of Ronald’s greatest blessings. He deeply loved his wife, Sheila Crabtree, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. He found great joy in painting, reading his Bible, and singing about his Savior, Jesus. Ronald worked for over three decades as a Chiropractor, serving his patients with love and compassion. He believed in working hard, providing for his family, and doing his best in every responsibility entrusted to him. Above all, Ronald was a man of faith. His trust in Jesus Christ gave him strength throughout his life and brought him comfort in his final days. He believed in the promises of Scripture and in the hope of eternal life. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Crabtree, and his daughters, Ronna Bell and Nancy Waynick. Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Sheila Crabtree; his son, Brian Crabtree (Becky); his daughter, Karen Barringer (David); and his beloved stepdaughters, whom he loved as his own, Bambi Lambert (Jim) and Jenny Tippens (Cory) and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Thursday July 23rd from 6:00 PM until 7:30 at Young’s Chapel Cumberland Presbyterian Church - 1705 Lawnville Road in Kingston, Tennessee. A Graveside Service will be held on Friday July 24th at 10 am at Lawnville Cemetery in Kingston, Tennessee. Kyker Funeral Home of Kingston is serving the Crabtree Family. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice, Pinnacle Assisted Living and Methodist Medical Center for the compassionate care, prayers, love, and support shown to Ronald and his family during his final days. Though his earthly life has ended, Ronald’s love, faith, example, and influence will continue through the lives of those he leaves behind. He fought the good fight, he finished the race, and he kept the faith. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” —Matthew 25:23

Ronald Wray Crabtree

May 4, 1930 - July 20, 2026