Dennis Lynn Crum

Dennis Lynn Crum, 78, a longtime resident of Athens, GA, passed away on December 30, 2025.

He was born on June 2, 1947, in Indianapolis, IN. Dennis lived a life marked by dedication, integrity and kindness. He was deeply devoted to his family, friends and was known for his loyalty and gentle spirit. A lifelong follower of Christ, his faith guided his life and was evident in the compassion and grace he showed to others. He had a lifelong love of animals and held a special affection for his pets, whom he considered members of the family. Growing up, he had the opportunity to live in several states before his family settled in West Virginia, where he graduated from Concord College in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting.

Dennis led a distinguished career in Healthcare Administration that he was truly passionate about. In 1975, he moved to Athens, GA where he became CFO of St. Mary's Hospital for 25 years, followed by 18 years as Senior VP and CFO of Tift Regional Medical Center in Tifton, GA. after which he retired and moved back to Athens. He was actively involved with the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), serving as Past President of the GA Chapter and remaining engaged with the organization throughout his life. Not one to sit still after retirement, he stayed active with other groups including OLLI@UGA volunteering with CASA, Wisemen group and ROMEO (Retired Old Men Eating Out). He had a taste for adventure and enjoyed traveling whenever he got the chance; however, the thing that brought him the most joy was spending time with family and spoiling them any chance he got.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Eugene Crum; his mother, Lois "Betty" Wesner Crum; and his brother, Roger Eugene Crum.

Survivors include the love of his life and wife of 57 years, Kathryn Ford Crum; son, Gregory Crum and wife, Kimberly; his beloved granddaughters, Avrie and Sophie Crum; his loving daughter, Jennifer Crum; his sister, Mary Jeanne Crum; and beloved pets, Lucy and Mia Bella.

A service to celebrate Dennis' life will be held at Lord & Stephens, 4355 Lexington Rd. Athens, GA on January17, 2026 at 3pm with reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Carolina Poodle Rescue in Pacolet, SC (carolinapoodlerescue.org) or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, East, Athens, GA is in charge of the arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com