Michael "Mickey" Lee Crowell, Sr.

In Loving Memory of Mickey Crowell

Michael Lee Crowell, Sr., fondly known as Mickey, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 15, 2025. Mickey was a devoted husband, inspiring father, and beloved son, brother, and friend. He was a beacon of laughter, kindness, and camaraderie to everyone he met.

Born on August 15, 1943, in Greenville, Texas, to Herman and Lola Crowell, Mickey grew up on a farm where he cultivated a character marked by grit and resilience helping raise cotton, wheat, and cattle. He graduated from Royse City High School before earning a degree in Technical Agriculture with a minor in Industrial Education from East Texas State College (now Texas A&M University, Commerce) in 1966.

In college, Mickey obtained more than a degree- he met his soulmate, Jan. They married on May 29, 1965, and eventually welcomed three children- Mike, Natalie, and Kristi. Above all else, his family is undeniably what mattered most to him.

Over the years, Mickey embraced a diverse array of career opportunities, leveraging his numerous talents across variable roles. He served as Assistant County Agent in Kaufman, Tx, and soon became County Agent in Jacksboro, Tx. Upon moving the family to Austin, he tackled the world of sales and distinguished himself as top salesman and Zone Manager for Ford Tractor Company.  Later, he became President and General Manager of Mike Benet Formals, guiding the company to international acclaim (pre-internet), establishing it as a premier brand recognized for its excellence in prom, pageant, and ball gown design, as well as the primary formalwear provider for the Eastern Star organization. After suffering a massive stroke in 1997, Mickey transitioned to a career in real estate before retiring in 2017.

Mickey truly loved people and found joy in serving others. He was honored as Camp County Chamber of Commerce’s Man of the Year in recognition of his leadership in the Pittsburg community. He served as Director of the First State Bank and was a dedicated member of the School Board for Pittsburg ISD for many years. Mickey was an active member of First United Methodist Church where he founded “Lord’s Acre”, an annual fundraiser that encouraged fellowship and fun.  He was also prominent in the Sigma Chi alumni group of East Texas and helped organize events and reunions. His loyalty and love for his Sigma Chi brothers, who were dear friends, helped to keep the alumni network strong.

Known for his positive attitude and infectious smile, Mickey faced every challenge with resilience and optimism. He was beloved by all who knew him, always quick with a joke and abundant in love. His hobbies included restoring antique classic cars and tractors, attending car shows and swap meets, taking his kids and their friends skiing and tubing on the lake, and taking the backroads to whatever his destination might be. He also cherished trips to Colorado, where he enjoyed adventuring jeep trails with family and friends.

Mickey is survived by his devoted wife, Jan Bigbie Crowell; daughter Natalie Crowell Pearce and her husband Brent; daughter Kristi Crowell Ellis and her husband David; daughter-in-law Nicole Crowell; grandchildren Clayton, Taylor, and Bella Crowell; Tyler (and husband Dalton), Ashton (and husband Ethan), Rylee, Kendall, and Erin Pearce; Emerson and Kate Ellis; sister Becky Milam; and many beloved great-grandchildren, nephews, and a niece. Mickey was preceded in death by his son, Mike Crowell, and his parents, Herman and Lola Crowell.

Through it all, Mickey's beloved wife Jan was his unwavering pillar of strength. After Mickey's massive stroke in 1997, Jan dedicated herself to his care with immense love and devotion. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, as they navigated life's challenges together with grace and tenderness. Their beautiful love story, filled with mutual respect and steadfast support, was an inspiration to all who knew them.

Mickey Crowell's legacy of love, laughter, and community spirit will forever be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate to know him. 

Services will be held at First United Methodist Church in Pittsburg, Texas Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 1:00pm followed by graveside services at Rose Hill Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025 at Erman Smith Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Pittsburg.

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