Gussie Crawford, age 72, was born on March 23, 1947, in Logtown, MS, to the late Rev. Ruby Jane Shoemake and Earlie Rogers Smith. A long-time resident of Pearlington, MS, Sister Gussie Crawford accepted Christ at a very young age and was an active member of Greater Mount Zion A.M.E. Church. Her dedication to the church allowed her to fulfill many roles, becoming one of the oldest mothers of the church. She was also a member of The Household of Ruth 1217 and The Women's Missionary Society A.M.E.C. 8th.

Gussie was known for her heart full of love and joy, which she shared with everyone she met. She was retired, having held numerous secretarial and librarian jobs, and was actively involved in the local voting polls each election year. Her contributions made her an invaluable asset to the Pearlington Community for many years.

On Thursday, July 4, 2019, Gussie gained her wings at her youngest daughter's home, surrounded by love. She leaves behind her children, Catherine Smith-Bean and son-in-law Ronnie, Arthur Smith, and Zabrina Smith and son-in-law David; her siblings Ruby Patterson and Alex, Earline Wheeler, Gilbert Gillum Jr. and Gail, Nancy Stewart and Edmund, Martha Frederick and Dean, Dorothy Jean Smith-Taylor, Cleo Stephens and Martin, Jennifer Grant, and Jesse Smith; her life companion Fred Jackson; devoted friend Gwendolyn Robinson; her aunt Lillian Rogers; a host of grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two Godsons, Attienne McNeely Sr., Bradford Frederick; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, and church family.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2019, at 11 am at Greater Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in Pearlington, MS, with visitation from 8 am until 11 am. Burial will follow in the Lindsey Cemetery under the direction of Baylous Funeral Home.