Lena Barefield Crabtree of Rincon, 97, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2022. She was born on July 20, 1924, on the family farm near Hiltonia, Georgia. She was the daughter of the late Hugh and Ola Barefield. Lena was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Robert, who passed away 13 years ago at the age of 82. She is survived by her son, Dr. Kenneth (Sandra) Crabtree of Augusta; daughter Dr. Linda (Horace) Lariscy of Wrens; granddaughter Hope Lariscy and grandsons David, John (Rachel), Luke, and Joel Crabtree; brother, Ronald (Harriet) Barefield; and many nieces and nephews.

Lena was a devoted wife, mother, and loyal friend. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Rincon, where she worked for many years as a preschool teacher. Before working as a teacher, she fostered adoptive infants and was a house mother to troubled youth and unwed mothers under the auspices of Parent and Child Development Services of Savannah. Her love for children was evident to everyone who knew her.

Lena enjoyed working in her flower garden and spending time with her family and friends. She traveled all over the United States, including Hawaii, as well as to many countries in Europe. Everyone who knew and loved her will miss her dearly.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 21, from 6-8 p.m., at Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home in Rincon. On Wednesday, June 22, the Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Savannah. Following the service, a luncheon will occur at First Baptist Church of Rincon.

Many thanks to Doctors Hospital of Augusta for their support and care of Lena and her family.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel. 912-754-6421