Yvonne Champlin Crawford
March 1, 1953-July 5, 2025
Pleasanton, California
Submitted by Scott Crawford

On July 5, 2025, Yvonne Champlin Crawford passed away peacefully in her Pleasanton home, surrounded by her closest family. She leaves behind her husband Bruce Crawford, son Scott Crawford, brothers Virgil and Raymond Champlin, and countless others whose lives she has touched.

Yvonne’s grace in life was truly a reflection of her favorite word: “Ubuntu.” This South African phrase loosely translates to “I am because we are.” It beautifully embodies both her lifelong interest in philosophy and other cultures, as well as the unwavering compassion and connection she shared with those around her.

Born March 1, 1953, Yvonne’s early years charted the meandering course of a Navy family, but from high school onward, she and her brothers all came to call the Bay Area home. Perhaps in part because of a childhood spent moving around the world, Yvonne put down deep roots, becoming a beloved figure in both the Catholic Community of Pleasanton and the greater Tri-Valley. Though a self-described ambivert, reaching out to others always seemed to come naturally—whether that meant welcoming new neighbors, helping loved ones through tough times, or congenially striking up a conversation with a waiter or barista. She always found ways to bring people together.

These deep roots, however, could not stifle her tenacious wanderlust. She garnered a reputation with friends and family for meticulously planned trips all across the globe, and in so doing spread her infectious verve for adventure. Even in the face of on-again off-again bouts fighting cancer over the last decade and a half, she never stopped traveling or lost sight of that endless desire to immerse herself in new cultures (and sate her inner foodie with all the delicious eats they have to offer).

She also had a crafty streak, and pursued many creative projects throughout her life—from stamp-making to sewing. She and her husband loved to experiment with quirky fabric combinations, and made all kinds of fun designs that now warm countless homes. In fact, their work is even enjoyed by children as far away as Africa through the “Dress a Girl” program.

Yvonne will be remembered for her generous spirit, dry wit, ceaseless curiosity, dauntless initiative, and indelible zest for life. She made even the simplest of moments special. We hope that all who cherished her will carry on her legacy of thoughtfulness, compassion, and community. Be good to each other, reach out to those around you, and always remember: “Ubuntu.”