Richard Crone

Richard Garvin Crone, 81, of Eminence, completed his earthly journey at 8:47 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, after enduring a brief illness. A lifelong resident of the area, he was a well-known, hardworking, and vibrant member of his community, dedicated to tending the land across generations as a proud family farmer. Born in Martinsville on February 9, 1945, he was the son of the late Byram Smith Crone and Betty (Garvin) Crone. Richard grew up in Eminence, graduating from Eminence High School in 1963. A talented athlete in his youth, he proudly played on the basketball team that went all the way to Semi-State. As the oldest brother of the four Crone boys, Richard naturally looked out for his siblings and set a strong, lively example for the family. Following high school, Richard proudly served his country in the National Guard stationed at Stout Field in Indianapolis, where he worked in the mechanic shop. On August 16, 1969, he wed the love of his life, Darla Kay (Scherle) Crone, after a memorable first meeting at a drive-thru a couple of years prior. Together, they shared nearly 57 years of marriage, building a beautiful life on their family farm in Morgan County. Richard lived a life rooted in faith, family, and tradition. He was a member of the Plainfield Bible Church and found great joy in listening to country music and traditional hymns. An outgoing man with a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor, Richard never met a stranger. His daily routine included visiting the Eminence Dairyland, where he loved sitting with fellow local farmers over breakfast and lunch to swap stories. He was a true "pickup man" who had a deep passion for tractor pulls across Indiana and Illinois, and a special affinity for antique Moline tractors. Along with his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his brother, Brent Crone. He is survived by his beloved wife, Darla Crone of Eminence; daughter, Kristin Day, and grandson, River Day both of Eminence; brothers, Gordon Crone (Pamela Siddons) of Mooresville and Jack Crone (Dana) of Eminence; sisters-in-law, Marla Fay Scherle and Carole Kinder both of Martinsville; chosen family, Lisa Abberger, and her children, Shane and Jenna Abberger both of Plymouth. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia. A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the funeral home, with an additional hour of calling beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial with full military honors will be in Mannan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Richard's memory to either the Eminence FFA or the Eminence Alumni Association, and envelopes will be provided during services. To share a favorite story, send a condolence to the family, or light a candle in Mr. Crone’s memory, please visit his tribute page online at www.lightmemorial.com.

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Richard Crone

February 9, 1945 - June 12, 2026