John Crouch, Iii

John David Crouch III, 75, passed away on Monday, April 25, 2022, at his home in Sweeny, Texas.

John was born on October 24, 1946, in Jonesboro, Arkansas to John and Wilma Crouch. He attended the University of Arkansas and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences and Bacteriology. After completing his degree, John joined the Air Force as a pilot and served two tours in Vietnam. He flew both fixed wing and helicopters and also worked as a flight instructor. During his nine years of active service, he received numerous awards and decorations including the Air Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Gallant Unit Citation, Combat Readiness Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal, among others. He exited service with an honorable discharge at the rank of Captain.

After the Air Force, John pursed a career as a commercial pilot with Southwest Airlines based out of Dallas, Texas. He was a great fit for the young company that balanced professionalism with a fun and friendly flying experience. John had a warm and engaging personality that quickly connected with passengers and crew members alike. Standing at 6’5” tall, he also gained the nickname “Big John.” Among colleagues he was well respected and known for his robust sense of humor. He retired in 2006 after almost 30 years with a company that he truly valued.

In his free time, John enjoyed hunting, fishing, football, and spending time with his family. His love for fishing is what prompted him to pack up the family in 1994 and move to Sweeny, Texas. It was the perfect location for him to fly out of Houston Hobby airport for work and then on his days off head to the coast for deep sea fishing. These outings were often family adventures in spending one or more full days at sea in the Gulf of Mexico. When the cooler months arrived though, John was ready for football and heading to the deer lease. During his retirement years John also traveled extensively with his wife, Qiuling, to many countries around the world.

John is survived by his wife, Qiuling Crouch; son, John Crouch IV and wife, Cindy; son, Kevin Crouch; daughter, Elizabeth Bucknor and husband, Charles; daughter, Katherine Crouch; son, Clifford Crouch; son, Justin Crouch; daughter, Kira Crouch; grandson, John Crouch V and wife, Lauren; grandson, Mark Carter; grandson, Lee Bucknor; granddaughter, Luna Morales; great-grandson, Kane Crouch; and brother, Colin Crouch and wife, Nancy.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022, at C.T. Baker & Sons Funeral Home, 634 S. Columbia Dr, West Columbia, Texas, with funeral services to follow at 2:00 p.m. Flowers can be sent directly to the funeral home.