Christena “Chris” Crawford passed away on November 20, 2017 in San Antonio, Texas. Chris was born on January 23, 1944, in Iowa City Iowa. As a young girl Chris, moved to McAllen, Texas, where her family ran a hotel. Chris graduated from McAllen High School and then from Trinity University.
Chris married David Spiller Crawford in 1966 and they had two children, Mary Cam Crawford and David Spiller Crawford Jr. David Sr. died in 1976.
Chris worked for the Texas Employment Commission (TWC) for 37 years. She held many jobs throughout that time and quickly rose to positions of responsibility and leadership. In 1987 Chris married George Robert Strait who she met while they served together at the International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP). Chris was an active leader in IAWP for many years, recently serving on the board of directors, chair of the international development committee and president of the Texas Chapter
During a celebration of life service in San Antonio, Chris’ husband, George and many family members expressed how much the IAWP meant to Chris. The feeling was mutual as Chris will be missed not only for her leadership and dedication to IAWP but as a true and caring friend to many.
Chris is survived by her husband George; her daughter Mary Cam; her grandsons Hugh Crawford, Ash Todd and George Burke Todd; and her step-daughters Shelly Strait Schieffer and Stephanie Strait.
In lieu of flowers or gifts the family requests that those wishing to make a gesture of remembrance for Chris sign their organ donor cards.
In addition to her leadership in IAWP, Chris was active in the San Antonio Conservation Society and played an important role in preserving many of the city’s historic buildings.
The President of the Society said Chris volunteered for many events held at its historic headquarters, which is now a museum located in downtown San Antonio.
The building is currently undergoing exterior restoration and the Society suggested memorials honoring Chris be designated for this project.
Please send your contribution to:
International Association of Workforce Professionals
3167 Bee Caves Road
Suite 107-104
Austin, Texas 78746
Please make checks payable to the San Antonio Conservation Society and please note this is for the Christina Crawford Memorial Fund.
Please contact IAWP with any questions.