Lloyd Wayne Crutchfield

We are saddened to announce the passing of Lloyd Wayne Crutchfield. Lloyd went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 2, 2022. Lloyd was born January 21, 1934, and was raised in Paris, Texas. He was the youngest of eleven siblings. In his youth, Lloyd watched his siblings each fly the coop one by one, leaving him eager and ready to follow suit. Upon finishing high school, Lloyd readily joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed in San Diego where he performed his duties until he was honorably discharged in 1957. He loved Southern California inside and out and made his life here. Lloyd was a businessman on all fronts, but he also made fast friends everywhere he went. His small business concessions thrived at all of the local and many State fairs. For many years, he was well known for his delicious “Roast Beef” concessions. Later in life, he established and ran a one-of-a-kind gourmet roadside produce stand in Encinitas known as “La Costa Farms”. He had always thought Encinitas needed a real roadside stand where we all could stop in and get what was needed for a meal, a gathering, or a trip to the beach. Whether it be the very best fresh produce or baked goods, he had the best. He was especially proud of having the finest strawberries, melons, sweet corn, tomatoes and of course homemade salsa and chips. Lloyd’s family of farmers collaborated with him for many years making it a thriving business and a fun place to eat strawberry shortcake and watch Fourth of July fireworks or pick up decadent treats while getting the best Christmas tree in town. Lloyd would always greet his customers with a big smile and a “howdy neighbor”. Rarely did he miss what you almost reached for, or asked about or sampled, and he’d almost always put extra goods in your box just for stopping in. Customers loved him and he made everyone feel special with his laughter and generosity. To his many employees, (often family members and their friends) he was the fun Uncle. If he thought you gave your all, he would stuff a couple extra bucks in your pockets to say thanks for the hard work. Whether walking in or out, he’d be belting out a tidbit of a great old country song you forgot you loved. He would wrap up his visit with playful jokes or a happy holler of “Check’s in the Mail”. Lloyd loved his family and never missed out on an opportunity to make family memories. From concerts and vacations to road trips and camping in the desert, Lloyd was always doing something exciting. Lloyd loved his dog like a good old timer guy does. Most recent were Willie and then Tesla; he spoiled and showed those girls off everywhere he took them. Lloyd will always be remembered for his best seasons of life and his best attributes. He lit up any room on any day with great energy and his charismatic ways. Lloyd was predeceased by his mother, Ola Elizabeth Stephens Crutchfield and father Gid Cleveland Crutchfield, his infant son Mark, and his ten siblings. His six brothers: Deward, Gideon Cleveland (G.C.), Rufus Vivian (R.V.), Leroy, Lester & Vester. His four sisters: Clara, Oleta, Crystel, & Williree. He is survived by his wife of nearly 30 years, Kristan Schmidt Crutchfield and their two sons, Parker and Chandler Crutchfield. As well, he is survived by his first wife, Norma Schimming Crutchfield, and their children, Stephen Crutchfield, Charlotte Crutchfield, Terri Crutchfield, and Tami Crutchfield Lemay. Five grandchildren: Christopher Crutchfield, Olivia Buechler Rouine, Hannah Buechler, Eva Buechler, Quinlyn Crutchfield, Van Lemay and two great-grandsons, Henri and Liam Crutchfield, as well as the many nephews, nieces, cousins and family from California down to Texas and beyond. A committal service will be held on August 24, 2022, at 9:30 a.m., at Miramar National Cemetery. “Check’s in the Mail”