Wanda K. Crawford

Wanda Kowaleska Crawford of Westfield passed way on 05/17/09. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1915, she was raised in Ambridge, PA. Mrs. Crawford earned her B.A. in English from Geneva College in Beaver Falls, PA in 1937. She and her late husband, James R. Crawford, moved with their family to Westfield in 1952.

Mrs. Crawford was a well know theater director in the area and had directed plays for the Westfield Community Players, Cranford Dramatic Club, Watchung Valley Players, Foothill Playhouse as well as several professional acting companies. She and her husband performed in and directed the Woodbridge Shakespeare Festival for 10 years during the 1960s and early 1970s. In addition to being a Life Member of Community Players, Mrs. Crawford had also been active in numerous other local clubs and organizations, including the College Women's Club and the Town Republican Committee.

Mrs. Crawford was an editorial assistant for 19 years for Time, Inc. in New York City and, upon her retirement, substitute taught in the Westfield Public Schools.

Mrs. Crawford is survived by her daughters: Mary Alice Crawford of Leesburg, VA, Carol Janner of Westfield, NJ, Wanda Jean Linzer and her husband, Douglas, of Barnet, VT, and her son, James Jr. of Wilmington, NC. She is also survived by her grandchildren, John, Michael, Beverly and Deborah, and 3 great grandchildren.

Private services will be held at a later date in Bronxville, NY.

The family encourages continued donations to the Westfield Rescue Squad.