G.W. Crisp, age 85, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on Friday, September 4, 2025, at Mercy Lourdes Hospital in Paducah.
G.W. was born in Paducah on February 14, 1941, to the late Chelsey Coy Crisp and Maurine Barnett. He was also deeply grateful for the love and guidance of his stepfather, Andy Tibbs, who played an important role in his life. He was of the Cumberland Presbyterian faith. G.W. was a devoted builder and beloved family man whose life was marked by hard work, steady leadership, and a deep appreciation for the people and places he loved.
For many decades, G.W. owned and operated G.W. Crisp Construction, where he built a lasting reputation for quality, integrity, and dedication. Through his work, he helped shape communities across western Kentucky and western Tennessee by constructing both commercial and residential properties that stood as a testament to his skill and commitment. G.W. served as past president of the Western Kentucky Home Builders Association, where he earned the respect of his peers through his leadership and experience.
Outside of work, G.W. found one of his greatest joys in sailing. It was his biggest passion beyond his career, and he loved the freedom and adventure that came with being on the water. He sailed all over, including the Caribbean, and treasured the experiences, memories, and sense of peace that sailing brought him. Above all else, G.W. loved his family. He cherished the time he spent with them and held them close in his heart throughout his life.
G.W. is survived by his wife, Shari Crisp of Paducah; his daughter, Valerie (Dennis) Potts of Paducah; his stepdaughter, Megan (Blake) McLeod of Paducah; his stepson, Aaron (Rebecca) Hodge; a brother, Joe (Wanda) Crisp of Paducah; eight grandchildren, Carrie (Micah) Cunningham, Gregory Potts, Ashley (Tony) Lamphere, Michael (Kelsey) Potts, Shannon Potts, Colton Hodge, Brees Butcher, Fletcher Hodge; 16 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Aline Puckett and Mary Crisp; three brothers, William Richard Crisp, Wallace Crisp, and Coy Crisp; and his parents and stepfather.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Kevil, with Bro. Drew Gray officiating. Burial will follow at the Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery.
Visitation will take place from 11:00 am until the service time of 1:00 pm on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the McCracken County Humane Society, 4000 Coleman Rd, Paducah, KY 42001.
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