Gerald Edward Crowder, age 75, of 1712 Forest Hill Avenue, Clifton Forge, Virginia, died Sunday, March 20, 2016 at his residence.

He was born April 12, 1940 in Covington to the late Harry and Lucille Wilson Crowder.

He was the owner/operator of the Clifton Forge Dairy Queen for over thirty-three years and a member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

He was a loving man who cared deeply for his family and employees, but was a friend to everyone he knew.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Judy Crowder, and one brother, Dennie Crowder.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia "Jenny" Nicely Crowder of Clifton Forge; two daughters, Sarah Maydian and husband, Curtis of Clifton Forge and Kristi Martin and husband, Jonathan of Eagle Rock; a son, Darrell Crowder and wife, Susie of Eagle Rock; five grandchildren, Matthew Maydian, Kaci Maydian, Trevor Maydian, Easton Martin, and Amber Hickey; two great grandchildren, Autumn Hickey and Raegan Hickey; a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins; a special aunt, Betty Jean Toombs of Covington; and two special friends, Marion Nicely, Sr. of Clifton Forge and Bill Withrow of Covington.

A graveside funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 24, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Covington with Pastor John Godfrey and Mr. Keith Bottenfield officiating. Interment will immediately follow.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, and at other times at the residence.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Clifton Forge Rescue Squad, P. O. Box 419, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.