CROUSE, N.C. - Mr. John Raymond "Papa" Crocker, 63, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on March 18, 1961 in Gaston County a son of the late John Harold "Sonny" Crocker and Barbara Jarrell Crocker. He was retired from Freightliner and also owned and operated the Fillin' Station Express in Cherryville. John was a humble servant of Jesus and was a faithful member of Anthony Grove Baptist Church in Crouse. He served in many capacities at Anthony Grove including the Doers Sunday school class, former Sunday school teacher, serving in the children and youth ministries, kitchen ministry and serving Wednesday night meals, served as the first Discipleship Director, served on the drama team, Faith Evangelism Team and the Church Council. He was a loyal friend for life, to know him was to love him. John touched many lives and was known for his big Papa hugs.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a furbaby Jazi Noel.

Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Tricia Price Crocker of the home; three sons, Ethan Crocker and wife Rosie of Utila, Honduras, Landon Culp and wife Samantha of Knox, Pa., Dakota Culp and wife Penny of Cherryville; a god-daughter, Cadee Grace "Squirt" Dobbins; three grandchildren, Walker Isaiah Culp, Scottie Culp, and Coraline Ruth Culp; two sisters, Cindy Jenkins and husband Rick; Mary "Doodle" Crocker both of Cherryville; nephew, Justin Jenkins and wife Angie and their daughter Raelynn; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alfred and Ruth Price of Shelby; brother-in-law Alfred Price Jr. and wife Marian; niece Holly Griffin and her daughter Kayleigh Owen; nephew, Josh Price and wife Meggan and their children, Evan, Jaxon, Ryker and Brooklyn; and numerous children and youth of Anthony Grove Baptist Church; grand dog, Koda; four legged companions, Lucia Rae and Lillie Mae.

The family received friends from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 3, 2024 at Anthony Grove Baptist Church in Crouse.

A celebration of life service was held at 7 p.m. on Sunday, November 3, 2024 at Anthony Grove Baptist Church with Dr. Dennis E. Bean and Rev. Trey Newton officiating.

Burial was private.

Memorials may be made to Bridge of Hope Daycare, c/o Anthony Grove Baptist Church 100 Anthony Grove Church Road Crouse, NC 28033. All checks should be made payable to Anthony Grove Baptist Church.

A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com

Stamey-Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Cherryville, N.C. is serving the Crocker family.