Help Cover Doug Crone's Final Expenses

Douglas Gerald Crone

November 28, 1956 – May 30, 2025

Douglas Gerald Crone, known simply as “Doug” to family and friends, passed away on May 30, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama at the age of 68. Born on November 28, 1956, in Mansfield, Ohio, Doug lived a life full of hard work, laughter, service, and adventure.

Doug was a mechanic by trade—following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather—and though he worked in retail in recent years, he was always known for his mechanical know-how and love for engines and anything mechanical. His true passion, however, was motorcycles—especially Harley Davidson. He loved the freedom of the open road and had a deep love for wide-open places like Texas, where he could open up the throttle and ride for hours. Doug rarely went long without a motorcycle in his garage or a story about his latest ride.

A proud Navy veteran, Doug served as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. As a plank owner, he was part of the ship’s first crew when it was commissioned in 1977. His service took him on Mediterranean cruises to ports in Italy, Spain, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands—places he remembered fondly. He also served as ground support crew at NAS Dallas in Grand Prairie, Texas. One of his most meaningful assignments was supporting an NAS Dallas pilot selected to attend the Navy’s Fighter Weapons School—now known as “Top Gun”—in Miramar, California.

Doug was a dedicated member of the American Legion and the Eagles Lodge, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow veterans and friends. He was a natural storyteller—often hilarious, occasionally outrageous, and always unforgettable. He loved a good joke, a cold beer, and long conversations filled with tall tales, conspiracy theories, and the kind of humor that left people laughing long after he walked away.

Doug was loving and fiercely protective of his family. He is survived by his daughter, Bobbie Jean Crone; his sister, Eva Marie Crone; and his brothers, Jeffrey Allen Crone and Leslie Deene Crone. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Johnnie Crone, and by his parents, Gerald Home Crone and Martha JeEan Crone.

Doug dreamed of traveling the country, especially to his favorite spots along the beaches of Texas and Florida—places he once explored with Johnnie, the love of his life.

At this time, no memorial service is planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doug’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Doug will be remembered for his stories, his laughter, his loyalty, and his adventurous spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

We are raising money for Doug's final expenses. While the VA will provide some benefit, they only reimburse expenses already paid for. The family is seeking to raise $2600 which will all go to the funeral home bill. If you can donate, it will help offset the costs not covered by his estate.