Min. Earl J. Crocker

Earl James Crocker was born on April 25, 1931, in Atlanta, Texas, to George Jolly Crocker and Rosalie Nard. He was raised in Pontiac, Michigan, and was baptized into Christ in 1944. Earl began his career with General Motors in 1950, pausing his employment in March 1952 to serve his country as a United States Marine. During his military service in Korea, he worked as a communications expert in combat zones, where his hearing was severely compromised. He was awarded three medals, including the Korean Service Medal with two stars. In 1954, he transferred to the United States Marine Corps Reserve and resumed his employment with General Motors. He was honorably discharged in 1960 and later retired as a Manager from General Motors in 1981. In 1956, Earl married Helen Jones, whom he later baptized into Christ. From their union, two sons were born, James Allen and Joel Patrick. Earl and Helen shared 55 years of marriage, marked by unwavering faith, collective strength, and a deep commitment to serving God. Together, they built successful entrepreneurial ventures and were instrumental in bringing many souls to Christ. They were passionate advocates for Southwestern Christian College and Christian education. Helen preceded him in death in 2011. In 1965, Brother Crocker preached his first sermon at the Hughes Street Church of Christ under the direction of Dr. Roosevelt Wells. In 1966, he enrolled in Michigan Christian College to further equip himself to preach and lead God’s people. Later that year, he was asked by Hugh Street Church of Christ to lead the establishment of a congregation in Monroe, Michigan. Under his leadership, the congregation grew through organization, evangelism, and baptisms, becoming a richly diverse congregation. During his 14-year tenure, he served as an ambassador for the Church of Christ throughout Monroe and the state of Michigan. He also established the $1,000 Minister Appreciation Service, honoring a local preacher annually. In 1980, Brother Crocker was called to serve as Minister of the Lemay Church of Christ in Detroit, where he faithfully served for more than 35 years. During his early years, many were baptized, and others placed membership in a church committed to soul-saving and community impact. Under his leadership, a 500-seat worship facility was constructed, and the former building was repurposed as a community resource center. The center offered daily Bible classes, two free hot meals each week, clothing distribution, and free tutoring for students. Brother Crocker intensified his work across the state, helping to establish the Michigan State Lectureship and Michigan State Singing. He assisted Brother West and Brother Swanigan with the First Sunday Singing and continued in leadership after they were called to their reward. He was an active participant in the Concerned Brothers Breakfast and served as Chairman of the Calendar Committee. The name “Concerned Brothers” proved fitting, as he suffered a stroke during one of their meetings, and their swift response ensured he received timely medical care. He cherished these gatherings of faithful men and their shared mission to strengthen and expand God’s kingdom. Brother Crocker was instrumental in bringing the National Lectureship and the Crusade for Christ to Detroit. His love for Southwestern Christian College (SWCC) ran deep, and he served faithfully as a Board member. Over the years, he also supported the efforts of the Wonderful Ladies of Michigan, helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars on behalf of SWCC. Following his retirement from full-time preaching, he remained active in the Lord’s work, assisting the leadership at Elmwood Park Church of Christ and teaching weekly Bible classes at Russellwood Church of Christ in Detroit and North Central Church of Christ in Flint. As his health declined, Earl relocated to California, where he enjoyed watching the news and westerns and spending quality time with his family—especially Ruth, Joel, and his three beloved grandchildren, Camryn (Taylor), Chanelle, and Cailyn, who affectionately called him “Papa Earl.” He was especially excited to learn of the upcoming arrival of his great-granddaughter, and his family now joyfully anticipates her birth—a beautiful reminder that life and love continue. Earl James Crocker will be remembered for his unwavering love for Christ, his bright smile, his can-do spirit, and his generosity toward others. His legacy of faith, service, and devotion to God’s people lives on.

Min. Earl J. Crocker

April 5, 1931 - January 22, 2026