EDWARD CRELIA

Edward “Ed” Layton Crelia, 91, of Columbus, Texas, died Sept. 22, 2023. Ed was born to William and Opal Crelia in Leonard, Texas, on Aug. 30, 1932.

On March 13, 1954, he married Jean Moore. Ed and Jean resided in Columbus for 46 years. They were blessed with 67 years of marriage, three children, six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Ed enjoyed a simple life. Ed was a Christian and had a genuine love for God’s creatures. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoyed helping him feed his special cows. The cattle were treated as pets, and would eat out of their hands. Feed and corn were generously provided for the resident wildlife several times each day.

Ed and Jean made it a priority to spoil their dogs, the last of which was Daisy, who will be present at his burial.

In his later years, Ed enjoyed coffee time with the group at the feed store, where he loved to share his truck-driving stories. He originally drove across the country independently and then worked for Texaco for the last 35 years of his career. For his dedication and excellent driving skills, he was selected as the Texaco Star of the Year in 1982 and won multiple Texaco Truck “Roadeos.” Ed’s goal in life was to work hard, live humbly and provide for the family he loved.

Our family has a sincere appreciation for the caregivers, Dr. Bart Klaus and the staff of Columbus Oaks Healthcare Facility for the genuine care, compassion and love provided to Ed in his last two years.

Survivors include his sister Glynell (Juan) Sewell of Bonham, Texas; his son, Layton Crelia of Garrison, Texas; daughters, Regina (Russel l) Wicke of Columbus and Donna Krueger of Brenham, Texas; grandchildren Jeremy Crelia of Garrison, Tyler (Christine) Wicke of McKinney, Texas, Sarah (John) Stancik of Port Lavaca, Texas, Dannah Krueger of San Antonio, Lacy (Orly) Teran of Highlands, Texas, and Riley (Kaitlyn) Krueger of Frelsburg, Texas; and great-grandchildren Alexandria, Noah, Logan, Titus, Madden, Kannon, Ethan, Layla, Liliana, Rex and Landyn.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; brother Cramer Crelia; and sisters Joretta Crelia and Erlanna Hall.

A private family graveside service will be held at sunset at Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus with the Rev. Donna Krueger officiating.

Memorials may be given to Columbus Rescue Dogs, 1798 Frelsburg Road, Cat Spring, TX 78933 or the charity of your choice.

Services are under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home, 1515 Montezuma St., Columbus. Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.