Dr. Frank Crawford II

Frank Crawford II D.D.S., a distinguished educator, innovator, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas. Born on March 19, 1932, in Toledo, Ohio, to Frank Garfield Crawford and Martha Cole Crawford, Frank's life was marked by an extraordinary blend of professional excellence, heartfelt devotion to family, and an adventurous spirit that touched many.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Frank's commitment to service was evident throughout his life. He pursued an impressive academic journey, earning a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California, a master's degree in theology from Biola University, and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of California. His diverse educational pursuits mirrored his wide-ranging interests and unquenchable curiosity.

Frank’s career was one defined by passion and innovation. He opened a private practice in endodontics in Indian Wells, California, where his skill and compassion won the admiration of many patients. Later he became the program director of graduate endodontics at the University of California, San Francisco, where he shaped the future of dental medicine through his leadership and mentorship. Among his proudest accomplishments was the invention of a Dental X-ray film holder, an innovation that gained worldwide recognition and significantly impacted dental care practice.

Family was at the heart of Frank's life. On April 25, 1975, he married his beloved wife, Billie Durham Crawford, in Kona, Hawaii—a union full of love and mutual respect that spanned decades. He leaves behind his cherished wife Billie; daughter Joyce; sons Terry, Bruce, Mike, and Kevin; grandchildren Kristi, Sean, Ryan, Sara, Adam, Jason, Campbell, and Caroline; and great-grandchildren Ava, Jordan, Taylor, Gannon, and Conner. Frank also held a special place in his heart for his niece, Teri, nephew, Justin, and the extended family of his wife, whom he claimed as his own and embraced and loved so very deeply. The memory of his son Stephen, who preceded him in death, remained a profound part of Frank’s life.

Beyond his professional and family life, Frank was a man of many passions. He found joy in writing books, playing the piano, golf, and snow skiing. His zest for adventure carried him across the globe through travel, fueled by a lifelong love of reading, research, and charitable work. Frank took a trip to Israel where he went inside Jesus's tomb and took communion in the garden of Gethsemane and then was baptized in the Jordan river. He was also a valued member of the Flying Doctors, dedicating his skills to help those in remote regions.

Those who knew Frank remember a man of immense warmth, quiet strength, and boundless generosity. His intellect and creativity inspired all who crossed his path. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate a life richly lived, a legacy etched in the hearts of his family, students, patients, and friends.

Visitation will be held on June 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Skyvue Funeral Home, located at 7220 Rendon Bloodworth Rd, Mansfield, Texas. The funeral service will follow on June 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the same location. A graveside service will take place at 11:30 AM on June 13, 2026, at Crowley Cemetery, 300 N Hampton Rd, Crowley, Texas.

Frank Crawford II’s remarkable journey may have ended, but his impact and spirit will forever remain with those who loved him. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, teacher, innovator, and friend.