Marsha Helen Crawford Treat

Marsha Helen Crawford Treat, age 86, of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at her home on November 27, 2024.

Marsha was born on February 9, 1938, the daughter of Nolan W. and Lois (Reagan) Crawford. She graduated from the University of Arkansas in June 1959 with a BSBA in Marketing/Business. She later attended several universities to obtain teaching certificates in Texas, Virginia, Florida, and Guam, where she began her career as an elementary school teacher.

She married Thomas (Tom) Treat on September 25, 1959, soon after he received his ROTC commission at the University of Arkansas. Together they shared a 64-year marriage until his passing on May 16, 2024. For 30 years, Marsha was a supportive Air Force Officer’s wife, a devoted mother to three sons, and a successful teacher. Later, she transitioned with Tom into the civilian sector, supporting his work inspecting hospitals for the Joint Commission (JCAHO), which also provided them with extensive opportunities for travel. Tom always credited Marsha for his success, often saying he couldn’t have done it without her.

One of Marsha’s proudest accomplishments was visiting every state capital, completing the journey in Alaska with her entire family. After Tom’s final retirement, they returned to her hometown of Arkadelphia, where she brought her love of community and music to many organizations. Marsha served on the Baptist Hospital Board, co-presided over the Philharmonic Club with Tom for two terms, and was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia.

Marsha loved spending time with her five grandchildren, treasuring every moment she had with them. She enjoyed taking family trips and making memories on cruises, during holidays, and through special celebrations. She also had a deep love for the University of Arkansas and took her last trip to Fayetteville with her three sons to attend the Arkansas-Texas football game on November 16, 2024. During that visit, she happily visited the Delta Gamma house, her former sorority, which she proudly supported throughout her life.

Marsha was known for her unwavering support of her family, her devotion to Arkansas, and her belief in the promise of Arkadelphia. She will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom, and her parents, Nolan and Lois Crawford. She is survived by her three sons, Ted Treat (Cristy) of Rosemount, Minnesota; Tim Treat (Irene) of Riverside, California; and Tyler Treat (Elizabeth) of Chanhassen, Minnesota. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Walter, Tracey, Lucy, Samantha, and Samuel. Other survivors include her sister, Judith Crawford Creamer (Erik); niece, Brenda Sue Shepherd (Jim); and numerous cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, December 30th , 2024. Early that morning there will be a private burial at Richland Cemetery for the family. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia at 11:00 a.m  with visitation to follow. 

Flowers are welcome or a gift to a charity of your choice. 

Arrangements are by Smith Family Funeral Home, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas. www.smithfamilycares.com