Weaverville – Editor’s note: The following was written by Steve Crawford’s children, Chris and Stephanie.
Steve started working with Ingles part-time as a bag boy when he was 16 years old. Raised from humble beginnings as the youngest of 11 Crawford kids, Steve was taught a strong work ethic. He has always maintained a high level of commitment to the community and those around him.
Steve has managed several Ingles stores over the years around Western North Carolina. When asked if he had a favorite store, he stated that they all were his favorite for one reason or the other, but Weaverville is his hometown and that is where his favorite people are.
Steve has given back to our community for many years. If there was a community fundraiser, school function, or a family in need, we all knew that “Ingles” was behind it due to the love Steve has for others. Many of our local teachers and community leaders would always lean on Steve to help the people in our communities or to raise money for our local schools.
When you shop at Ingles in Weaverville, you will find Steve greeting customers, supporting his staff, or giving out hugs.
Many of the children that visit that store will call Steve “grandpa Steve” due to the love he shows to all young children. When you speak to staff that worked for Steve now or have worked for him in the past, the most common theme you will hear others say is that “Steve is a good person and he was a great mentor and role model for me”. Oftentimes, Steve will have friends stop into the store to just say hello and check on him.
“This was a very difficult decision to make, but It is time for me to retire and spend time with my family,” Steve stated. “I will miss my customers and staff, but I am not going anywhere. I will still be around town.”
Steve looks most forward to spending time with his high school sweetheart/wife, Linda, on their farm. He also wants to continue to be involved and spend time with his two kids and three grandchildren.
Steve’s hobbies include classic muscle cars, farming, and golf.