Randy Crowder, one of the greatest athletes to come out of Mercer County, passed away at 72 on May 20.
He stood out as an All-American lineman in football and was named MVP of the Midwestern Athletic Conference.
He also played in the prestigious Big 33 Game and was captain of his team during their 1969 championship season.
Crowder was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the 6th round of the 1974 NFL Draft and played six seasons in the NFL—three with the Dolphins and three with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
After playing, he briefly returned to Penn State as an assistant coach.
He later worked in real estate in Tampa, Florida, where he also served as president of the local chapter of the NFL Retired Players Association.
Randy Crowder, Eldest Daughter, Dacia, Confirms The Death Of Her Father
He is survived by his loving wife, Pauline Pope-Crowder, and their three children: Dacia, Alanna, and Channing.
Randy Crowder’s daughter, Dacia Crowder, shared a heartfelt message following his passing.
She expressed deep sorrow and gratitude, saying her father had given their family more time than they could have asked for.
She remembered how her father’s legacy would live on through future generations, stating that their family would always honor his name.
Though heartbroken, she found peace in knowing her father was finally free from pain and at rest.
My beloved father Randy Crowder has transitioned from this life and joined our ancestors. 💔😭 He gave us more time than we deserved. He fought an unbelievable fight. He made sure to be there for Jade Salis masters celebration. His legacy is carved on the ages. Our lineage will always know his name. Our hearts are shattered. Daddy is finally free, at peace & no longer trapped in a vessel and finally pain free.
Dacia Crowder
Similarly, Steve D. Gurrera shared some kind words after Randy Crowder’s passing, saying the city of Farrell lost someone truly special.
He remembered Randy as a great athlete who played both football and basketball and cared a lot about doing well in school.
Steve said he knew Randy personally and always thought he was a good person. He sent prayers to Randy’s family and said God bless him.
We meeting the city of Farrell lost a great football and basketball player. Randy did everything from plan two sports and making sure that his education was super. What a nice guy I knew Randy he was just a great young man. Prayers go out to him and his family and God bless Randy
Steve D. Gurrera
Moreover, Leroy Kollock shared a touching memory of Randy Crowder, saying he was a great athlete and a wonderful person.
He remembered Randy from his childhood, when Randy worked as a summer playground monitor.
Leroy recalled how Randy used to let him help out so he could get extra chocolate milk.
He was not only an incredible athlete but also an amazing individual. I still remember him being a summer play ground monitor and he would let me help him when I was a young kid so I could get extra chocolate milks. Sadly Missed
Leroy Kollock
Randy’s legacy continued through his son, Channing Crowder, who also played in the NFL for the Miami Dolphins.
Together, they remain the only father-son duo to both be drafted by and play for the Dolphins.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In basketball, he was a key player on the 1969 state championship team, finishing second in scoring behind fellow local legend Dave Johnson.
- Similarly, in track, he earned varsity honors for three years.
- He was inducted into the Mercer County Hall of Fame in 2010.
