Charles "Leader" Crabb

Services will be live-streamed and may be viewed by clicking here.

Charles Lee “Leader” Crabb, 92, of Carlsbad, NM, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, June 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Denton-Wood Funeral Home with Pastor, Joshua Crabb, his grandson, officiating. Interment will follow at the Carlsbad Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Denton-Wood Funeral Home.

Charlie, affectionately known as "Leader" to his family and friends, was born on December 21, 1932, in Otis, New Mexico, to Tollie Willis and Lucille (Ridgeway) Crabb. He proudly served in the United States Navy. On March 12, 1955, he married Alma Kelley, the love of his life, and together they built a strong and loving family.

Leader's career began in construction, but his passion and hard work led him to the potash mines of southeastern New Mexico, where he dedicated many years of service. He retired from Kerr McGee as a maintenance superintendent, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and excellence. Outside of work, Leader found joy in a wide range of hobbies. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, always looking forward to time spent in nature. His love for the outdoors was matched by his appreciation for simple pleasures at home, including tending to his garden, caring for his lawn, and sharing meals with his family. A particular family favorite was his legendary Christmas breakfast of creamed quail with biscuits, a cherished tradition that will be fondly remembered for generations to come.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Tollie and Lucille Crabb; his sisters, Irene Dorey and Rosa “Sissy” Jump; his brothers, William (Bill) Crabb, Robert (Bob) Crabb, and Walter (Pete) Crabb; and his son, Curtis Crabb.

He leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly: his devoted wife, Alma Crabb; daughters: Barbara Robillard (David), Nancy Crabb, Kellie Leach (Russell), Claudia Estrada-Hickman (Bill), and son, Eric Crabb; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; his sister, Joann Saunders; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Pallbearers are Robert Valenzuela, Brian McClane, Russell Leach, Ryan Leach, Samuel Leach, Ryan Gonzales, Cole Kessler, and Dillon Reynolds.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice, or in a way that honors Leader’s spirit.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Lakeview Hospice for their compassionate care during Leader’s final days.

Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com