NEW SALEM — Kimberly Clarke Crawford of New Salem, an artist at heart, loved nature and her family.

She died on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, in the loving arms of her kids.

“Kimberly loved nature, her kids, and her grandchildren,” her family wrote in a tribute. “She always looked forward to the spring after a long winter. She would wait for the wren birds to build their nests and have their babies.

“She was a loving grandmother and mom to Jesse and Rossana Crawford and their two boys, Ignacio and Javier; Olana and Devin Purcell and their three children, Norah, Hazel and Luca; and her youngest son, Elijah Crawford. 

“She was born on the first day of summer in 1958 to Jayne (née Geurtze) and William Clarke. She has two brothers, Paul and William Clarke

“She was an artist at heart. She was always crafting, painting, or designing. Kim also was known for her treats and homemade yeast rolls. She will be missed.”

There will be a private celebration of life held by her family at a later date.