Mickey Joe Crofford

Mickey Joe Crofford, Sr., lovingly known as "Pops," of Okemah, Oklahoma, was born March 20, 1942, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He passed peacefully from this life August 6,2025, in Okemah, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and hard work.

Born with a heart to serve and a spirit of generosity, Pops moved to Okemah in 2019 to be closer to his family—a decision that brought him great joy and deep connection in his final years. On May 24, 2021, he married the love of his life, Geneva Joyce Crofford. Their union was one of true companionship, laughter, and shared devotion to faith and family.

A devout member of Refuge Church in Okemah, Pop’s faith was the foundation of his life. He held a deep respect and love for his Bishop, Rev. David Shatwell, and his Bible study teacher, Rev. Randy Clark. Pops treasured the Word of God, often spending quiet moments in study and prayer. His life was a testimony to the strength and peace that comes from a relationship with Christ.

Pops proudly served his country in the United States Navy, living by the principle of service before self. That same discipline and honor carried into his civilian life, where he became a successful small business owner, running a pizzeria and convenience store for over 30 years before retiring.

Even in retirement, Pops was far from idle. He loved the outdoors and took pride in the simplest joys—meticulously mowing his yard, cutting and chopping wood for family, fishing, and lending a hand whenever it was needed. He especially enjoyed helping his son-in-law, Bobby Dilday, during hay season—a tradition that brought both purpose and cherished time with loved ones.

A tireless caretaker and a man who never shied away from hard work, Pops was the cornerstone of his family. His love ran deep, and his actions spoke louder than words ever could.

Pops leaves behind a family who adored him, a church that respected him, and a community better for having known him. His life was one of steadfast commitment—to God, to family, and to the values that truly matter.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in every life he touched.

Pops is survived by his loving wife: Joyce Crofford of Okemah, Oklahoma, his children: Rhonda Eby and husband Jeff Eby of Adair, Oklahoma, Denise Roswell of Tacoma, Washington, Joann Powel of Skiatook, Oklahoma, Susy Dilday and husband Bobby Dilday of Okemah, Oklahoma, Joe Crofford Jr., he had 11 brothers and sisters, his grandchildren: Kristen Eby, Megan Poe, Randy Hook jr., Jerry Hook, Anthony Hook, Brandon Hook, Dakota Powel, Britney Lowery, Michael Meier, Darion Foutch and Hope Garcia, his great grandchildren: Charlette Poe, William Poe, Brayden Hook, Scott Hook, Layla Hook, Drew Hook, Levi Hook, Max Hook, Timothy Lowery, Tuff Lowery, Paisley Meier, Ryker Meier, Hayden Foutch, Hudson Foutch, Colton Foutch, Brecken Garcia and Charlott Clair Garcia.

“Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:21