Keith Clarion Crider

Keith Clarion Crider, a longtime resident of Westford, passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at the age of 86. He was the beloved husband of Bonnie Lee Stuart-Crider, with whom he shared over thirty wonderful and love-filled years.

Born in Elgin, Iowa on November 23, 1938, Keith was the son of the late Dr. Raymond and Frieda (Yenney) Crider, and a twin brother to Kenneth Crider (dec.10/13/2009). Both he and Kenny proudly served their country in the United States Army in the early 1960’s before settling down in New England. Keith was always very proud of his mid-Western roots and upbringing which contributed greatly to the kind and humble person he always was around others. It would be a challenge to find a person who did not enjoy his collection of stories (mainly about baseball) or his unlimited supply of jokes. Keith’s favorite place to be is always on the baseball field, where he spent so many years of his life as an avid player and fan. Up until his early 80’s, you could still find him on the pitcher’s mound. Off the field, Keith always greeted you with a big infectious smile and a story and a joke. He was loved by so many, and he loved them right back. He instilled kindness in others and always preached that “It is nice to be important, but more important to be nice.” All who knew him would know that he would have described his life as like a broken drum…you can’t beat it!

In addition to his loving wife, Keith is survived by three children Kristin Murphy of MA, Karen Martin of VT, and Jeff Crider of Arizona; stepdaughter Krista Snow of MA; niece Jennifer Ditscheit of FL; along with seven grandchildren and three nieces who he loved dearly.

His Funeral Service and interment will be held privately.

A celebration of life gathering will take place on October 19, 2025, at The Establishment, 75 Princeton Street, Chelmsford from 4pm to 7pm. The family asks all to stop by and share a story or one of his favorite jokes.

Memorial donations may be made in Keith’s memory to Cancer Research Institute | Advancing Immunotherapy Research.