Jennifer Jeffries Crawford

Jennifer Jeffries Crawford died 9/28/2023 in Durham NC. She is survived by her

husband of 34 years, Lawrence Edward Crawford, sons Jonathan Edward Crawford and

Christopher Lawrence Crawford, brother Christopher Coleman Jeffries (Beth Jeffries),

nieces, and cousins.

Jennifer was born May 8, 1962 to James Douglas Jeffries and Barbara Coleman

Jeffries. Together with her brother Christopher, she grew up at the family home in NW

Washington, DC.

As a child she was an avid reader and an excellent student. She participated in Girl

Scouts, played piano, and sang in the church choir. She attended Stone Ridge Country

Day School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, MD graduating with several honors

including a National Achievement Scholarship. She then entered the University of

Virginia as an Echols’ Scholar graduating with a degree in Chemistry. Afterwards, she

received an MD from Duke University School of Medicine and completed a residency in

pediatrics at Texas Children’s Hospital where she had the honor of being selected as

Chief Resident.

While a 3rd year student at UVA, Jennifer met a young medical student; Lawrence

Edward Crawford. The two formed a friendship that blossomed into an everlasting love.

After welcoming two sons and making several moves, the family settled in Durham, NC.

In addition to practicing medicine at Duke and teaching, she was president of Duke

Campus Club, served on the boards of Durham Academy and of Student U, and was

involved with Boy Scout Troop 424—where she was proud to have both sons become

Eagle Scouts. As an empty nester she enjoyed knitting, visiting the beach, gardening,

personal training, and most of all—tennis.

In November 2021, Jennifer accepted the challenge of her cancer diagnosis with

tenacity and resolve. In the face of her chemo treatments she competed in tennis

tournaments, traveled internationally, and continued to keep up with friends and family.

She approached her health challenges with a genuine curiosity and as opportunities to

learn how to overcome them. She was supported by her beloved Larry every step of the

way and by the love of her sons Jonathan and Christopher.

Jennifer wanted to thank her bestie Lauren for coming to countless chemo

appointments and for just being there. She had an army of friends, family, and

neighbors who were there to offer nutritious meals, books to read, and themselves as

open ears, walking buddies, and tennis dates. Jennifer would like to thank her amazing

medical care team at Duke Cancer Center; especially Hope E. Uronis, MD and Margot

Mahon O’Neill, PA.

As she writes this… (of course I did) and it is starting to sound like an acceptance

speech at an awards show, I realize it is… I won a loving family, an amazing life and

connections to amazing people. It’s been a fabulous ride and although I had thought it

would be a longer journey, I realize that’s not what’s important. My connection to each

and everyone of you has been a gift and a privilege, and for that I am truly grateful. Until

we meet again…. Jennifer

A memorial mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 27, 2023 at

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Officiating will be Fr. Torres.