Edith Virginia (Colvard) Crutcher

Edith Virginia Crutcher

Née Colvard

Passed away peacefully in her home on October 5, 2023.  Edie was born on June 8, 1924 in Jefferson, North Carolina, the oldest daughter of Fred and Zora Colvard.

For almost a century, her inquisitive mind and passionate energy made her a leader in numerous fields including the arts, education and social work.  Her world travels provided a platform for creative contributions and individual growth.  Edie was an engaging story teller, a world class hostess, an exotic chef and a trend setter.

On a federal level, Edie served as a Commissioner of the Indian Arts and Crafts Board of the Department of the Interior.  As a presidential appointee to the Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Art in Santa Fe, she continued to work for many years with issues concerning the Native American Community and the Arts. In addition, Edie served as director on the board of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and as Chair of the NMWA National Advisory Board.  Edie was a member of the USIA Arts Committee of the United States Information Agency and was also active as a Director and Chairman of the Wolf Trap Associates.

In her native North Carolina, Edie received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for her continued promotion of the arts and educational programs including the Playwright’s Project and the Lees McRae Wildlife Program.

Edie made a notable contribution in public relations efforts for social work programs. As a field representative for the Navy Relief Society, she directed activities at Navy and Marine installations throughout the world.

Edie was an honors graduate of Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, N.C, where she served as Trustee and received the Distinguished Alumni Award. She continued her education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she honed her interest in journalism while working on the Daily Tar Hill staff.

Edie Crutcher was predeceased her husband, the Honorable John William Crutcher, and is survived by her son, George Koen (and his wife, Nancy) and by her daughter, Sandra Barrett.  In addition, “Granny Edie” is survived by four grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

Following a private family service, the family will receive guests at a celebration of Edie’s life at noon on October 12, 2023 at Jefferson Landing Country Club.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to Ashe Food Pantry, Inc, PO Box 705, (115 Colvard Street), Jefferson, NC 28640 or to the charity of your choice.  The family remains grateful and wishes to thank her caregivers,  the staff of Medi Home Hospice, and Ashe Memorial Hospital for their compassionate assistance.