William Justeen Crosby

It is with deep sorrow that the family of William Justeen Crosby, affectionately known as Grandy, announces his passing on May 2, 2026, at the age of 98. Born May 2, 1928, in Chilton, Texas, William lived a full and meaningful 98 years to the day. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, as well as a proud veteran who served his country with honor.

William married the love his wife, Irene, in 1948. He proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951, serving during the Korean War as an aircraft mechanic — a role that reflected his skill, discipline, and steadfast dedication to his country. Following his military service, he went on to build a distinguished civilian career at James Connally and later retiring from M&M Mars where his grandkids remember all the candy they would get when they would visit. His favorite thing to do was to go camping with his family and watch wrestling. In recent years, he would go anywhere family could take him which included watching his great grandchildren play football, softball, baseball, soccer, and orchestra concerts. He especially loved visits from his great-grandchildren who made him smile and he was quite the jokester with anyone who visited. He was also a member of Speegleville Baptist Church.

William was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 72 years, Edna Irene Crosby; his parents, W. F. and May Bell Crosby; his sister, Juanita Merritt and her husband Bill; and his brother, Milburn Crosby and his wife Billie; brother-in-law, Johnny Buckner.

William is survived by his son, Michael Crosby, and his wife, Diana; his daughter, Dorothy Jennings, and her husband, Garry; four grandchildren, April Keller (Justin), Kristi Arredondo (Frank), Jason Jennings (Angela), Daniel Crosby (Stephanie); and eight great-grandchildren, Aaron (Mari), Dalton, Brianna, Ethan, Carter, Jordan, Brooklyn, and Brody; his sister, Jeanette Buckner; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated caregivers who provided William with compassionate and loving care: Christine, Shannon, Coco, Candy, Melissa, and Jayla. A very special and deepest thanks is extended to Jayla, whose exceptional devotion and kindness during his most challenging times brought immeasurable comfort to William and his family.

May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family find comfort in the memories he leaves behind.